01 Nov 2022 | 06:33 AM UTC
New Zealand: Adverse weather forecast over southwestern regions through at least Nov. 3
Severe weather forecast over southwestern New Zealand through at least Nov. 3. Disruptions possible.
Event
Adverse weather is forecast across parts of western South Island through at least Nov. 3. A front, preceded by strong northerly winds, is forecast to track onto the South Island from the west Nov. 2 before tracking slowly northeastwards Nov. 3. Heavy rainfall is likely over western South Island through Nov. 3, including the headwaters of the Otago and Canterbury lakes and rivers. Significant rainfall is forecast over central parts of Westland; dangerous river conditions, flooding, landslides, and traffic disruption are possible. Severe gales are forecast about the Canterbury High Country, Fiordland, western Otago, and western Southland.
As of Nov. 1, the New Zealand National Meteorological Service (MetService) has issued the following weather warnings:
Orange (the middle level on a three-tier scale) Heavy Rain Warning: Buller, headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers about and south of Arthurs Pass, Fiordland north of Doubtful Sound, headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers, and Westland.
Orange Strong Wind Warning: Canterbury High Country and Fiordland.
Yellow Heavy Rain Watch: Richmond and Bryant ranges including the Rai Valley area and Tasman west of Motueka.
Yellow Strong Wind Watch: Central Otago, Queenstown Lakes District, and Southland west of Riversdale and Winton.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
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 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 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 with 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.
