13 Apr 2022 | 06:32 AM UTC
New Zealand: Heavy rainfall and strong winds forecast in parts of North Island through at least early April 14 /update 2
Heavy rainfall, strong winds forecast in parts of North Island, New Zealand, through early April 14. Flash flooding, disruptions likely.
Event
Heavy rainfall and strong winds are forecast in parts of North Island through at least early April 14. The remnants of Tropical Cyclone Fili is forecast to track southeastward, making a close approach to eastern North Island through April 13, bringing widespread impacts to North Island, including heavy rain and severe gales. Very large waves and coastal inundation are likely along some eastern coasts of North Island. Significant heavy rain is forecast for Gisborne and Wairoa; dangerous river conditions and significant flooding are likely. Landslides and flooding are likely to disrupt travel; some roads may become impassable, possibly isolating communities. Strong winds could damage trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures; power outages are likely across the affected area. Residents are advised to avoid outdoor activities and unnecessary travel.
As of April 13, the New Zealand National Meteorological Service (MetService) has issued the following warnings:
Red Heavy Rain Warning (highest level on a three-tier scale): Gisborne and Wairoa District; up to 20 cm (8 inches) of rain is forecast through at least early April 14.
Orange Strong Wind Warning: Bay of Plenty, Gisborne, Hawke's Bay, Rotorua, and southeastern Taupo; gusts of up to 130 kph (80 mph) are possible, especially around Great Barrier Island.
Yellow Heavy Rain Watch: Hawke's Bay, excluding the Wairoa District.
Yellow Strong Wind Watch: Horowhenua Kapiti Coast, Taranaki, Taumarunui, the rest of Taupo, Tongariro National Park, and Wellington.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days. The heavy rain is likely to lead to rapid water level rises in rivers and streams. Surface flooding, landslides, and hazardous driving conditions are possible.
The remnants of Tropical Cyclone Fili is likely to impact much of the same areas of North Island hit by heavy rain late March. Authorities declared a state of local emergency across the Gisborne Region due to flooding. Hundreds were evacuated from the region, and portions of state highways 2, 38, and 35 were closed due to flooding, landslides, and damage. Te Reinga Bridge in Wairoa District, Hawke's Bay Region remains closed due to significant structural damage. Authorities are urging residents to be prepared for major flooding and disruptions. Localized flooding April 13 has damaged recently repaired bridges and fences in parts of coastal Hawke's Bay, south of Hastings.
As of the afternoon of April 13, State Highway 35 in Gisborne is impassable between Hicks Bay and Te Araroa and between Tokomaru Bay and Te Puia Springs due to flooding. More than 200 people are without power north of Gisborne, mostly in the Rangitukia area, Waikura Valley, and Lottin Point area.
Hazardous Conditions
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
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 airports in the region, including but not limited to Auckland International Airport (AKL) and Wellington International Airport (WLG). Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations along the Tasman Sea and Cook Strait 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 flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
