New Zealand: Adverse weather forecast over northern and northwestern North Island through at least Jan. 10

Event

Heavy rainfall and strong winds are forecast across northern and northwestern parts of North Island through at least Jan. 10. As of Jan. 9, the New Zealand National Meteorological Service (MetService) has warned that Cyclone Hale is approaching the North Island Jan. 9, bringing rain and strong east to southeasterly winds. The MetService has also warned that this is likely to be a significant adverse weather with widespread effects; more watches and warnings are likely to be added as the system moves closer and its exact track and intensity become more certain. The heavy rain could cause landslides, surface flooding, and damage to roads. The following weather warnings are in place:

• Orange (middle level on a three-tier scale) Heavy Rain Warning: Coromandel Peninsula; Gisborne; Hawke's Bay. Heavy rainfall of up to 18 cm (7 inches) is possible.

• Yellow Heavy Rain Watch: Auckland, including Great Barrier Island; southern and eastern Northland.

• Yellow Strong Wind Watch: Auckland; Bay of Plenty; Coromandel Peninsula; Great Barrier Island; Taupo; Waikato in the lee of the Kaimai Range.

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.

Resources

New Zealand National Meteorological Service