16 Mar 2023 | 03:48 AM UTC
New Caledonia: Adverse weather forecast territory-wide through at least March 17
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms forecast across New Caledonia through March 17. Disruptions to transport, business, and utilities possible.
Event
Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecast across New Caledonia through at least March 17. Rainfall accumulations of 35-40 cm (14-16 inches) are forecast across the territory, with the heaviest rainfall of up to 45 cm (18 inches) possible in far southern Grande-Terre Island; significant flooding is likely. As of March 16, Meteo France New Caledonia has issued the following weather warnings across the territory:
Red heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Yate Commune.
Orange heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: Dumbea, Mont-Dore, Noumea, Paita, and Thio communes.
Yellow heavy rainfall, thunderstorm, and strong wind warnings: the rest of the territory.
Authorities may issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. 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
The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Additional traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate other low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Floodwaters and related debris may render further bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion.
The disruptive weather could cause delays and cancellations at airports in the region, including but not limited to La Tontouta International Airport (NOU). Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic.
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 debris is cleared. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements prior to travel in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
