10 Mar 2022 | 01:54 AM UTC
New Zealand: Adverse weather forecast across western and southwestern South Island through at least early March 12
Heavy rain, strong winds forecast across western and southwestern South Island, New Zealand, through early March 12. Disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rains and strong winds are forecast in western and southwestern South Island through at least early March 12. Forecast models indicate that a front is likely to track east across South Island March 11, bringing heavy rain to the West Coast of the South Island and strong north to northwesterly winds to parts of central and southern South Island. As of March 10, the New Zealand National Meteorological Service has issued the following watches and warnings:
Orange Heavy Rain Warning (second-highest level on a three-tier scale): ranges of Westland south of Otira; 9-12 cm (3.5-5 inches) of rain is forecast.
Yellow Heavy Rain Watch: Buller south of Karamea and west of Reefton and Fiordland about and north of George Sound.
Yellow Strong Wind Watch: Southland, Fiordland, Central Otago, Southern Lakes, and Canterbury High Country about and south of Arthur's Pass.
Authorities may issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. The disruptive weather may cause some 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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.
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 officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where severe weather has occurred. Charge battery-powered devices in case of prolonged electricity outages.
