04 Feb 2022 | 11:55 AM UTC
New Caledonia: Adverse weather forecast territorywide through at least Feb. 5
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms forecast across New Caledonia through Feb. 5. Disruptions to transport, business, and utilities possible.
Event
Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecast across New Caledonia through at least Feb. 5. The adverse weather is associated with a weak tropical depression traversing between the Loyalty Islands and southern Vanuatu Feb. 4-5. The adverse weather will initially occur in the far north of the territory late Feb. 4, before moving over the east coast of the main island of Grande Terre and the Loyalty Islands and onto the far south through the night Feb. 4-5. Civil Security New Caledonia has warned the public to be alert to the possibility of flooding and landslides during periods of intense rainfall
As of Feb. 4, Meteo France New Caledonia has issued the following weather warnings across the territory:
Orange heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings (the middle tier on a three-tier scale): East coast, north, and southeast of Grand Terre, as well as Belep Island in the far north, L'Ile de Pins in the far south, and the Loyalty Islands.
Yellow heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: Rest of the territory.
Authorities may issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to further transport disruptions throughout the region. Additional traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate other low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Floodwaters and related debris may render further bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion.
The disruptive weather will likely cause further delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved; it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or debris is cleared. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements prior to travel in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
