26 Jan 2023 | 09:40 AM UTC
New Zealand: Adverse weather forecast over northwestern parts of North Island through at least Jan. 28
Heavy rainfall forecast across northwestern parts of North Island, New Zealand, through at least Jan. 28. Flooding and disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall and strong winds are forecast across northwestern parts of North Island, as well as around Mount Taranaki, through at least Jan. 28. A subtropical low to the northwest of North Island is expected to bring rainfall totals of over 10 cm (4 inches) and winds gusting up to 100 kph (62 mph) across parts of the affected region. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.
As of Jan. 26, the New Zealand National Meteorological Service (MetService) has issued the following weather warnings:
Orange Heavy Rain Warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Northland; Auckland; the Coromandel Peninsula, and the Bay of Plenty west of Whakatane
Yellow Heavy Rain Watch: Mount Taranaki
Yellow Strong Wind Watch: Auckland
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.
