04 Apr 2023 | 11:08 AM UTC
New Zealand: Adverse weather forecast over parts of southern, southwestern, and western South Island through at least early April 6
Severe weather forecast over parts of South Island, New Zealand, through at least April 6. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast over parts of southern, southwestern, and western South Island through at least early April 6. A weather system is forecast to bring heavy rainfall across Fiordland and southern Westland April 5. Rainfall totals of 8-12 cm (3-5 inches) are expected in elevated parts of northern Fiordland and southern Westland, with lesser amounts likely along the coast. Strong winds are expected in coastal areas of Southland, including Stewart Island, and southern Clutha District through early April 6.
As of late April 4, the Meteorological Service of New Zealand (MetService) has issued the following watches and warnings:
Orange Heavy Rain Warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Westland south of Harihari and Fiordland north of George Sound
Yellow Heavy Rain Watch: Fiordland about and south of George Sound
Yellow Strong Wind Watch: Coastal Southland, including Stewart Island, and Clutha south of Balclutha
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 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. Additional power outages are possible in areas impacted by the weather system.
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 additional delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas subject to heavy rainfall and track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after weather 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 or reported. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
