12 Oct 2023 | 04:24 AM UTC
New Zealand: Heavy rain and strong winds forecast across southern and central regions through at least Oct. 14
Heavy rain and strong winds forecast across southern and central New Zealand through Oct. 14. Disruptions likely.
Event
Heavy rain and strong winds are likely across southern and central regions through at least Oct. 14. The New Zealand National Meteorological Service (MetService) has issued the following weather warnings as of the afternoon of Oct. 12:
Orange (middle level on a three-tier scale) Heavy Rain Warning: Headwaters of the Canterbury Lakes and Rivers south of Arthur's Pass and Westland south of Otira. Rainfall of up to 15 cm (6 inches) is forecast.
Yellow Heavy Rain Watch: Buller, headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers, Fiordland, Grey Districts, Tasman west of Motueka.
Yellow Strong Wind Watch: Canterbury High Country, Fiordland from Milford Sound southwards, Marlborough south of Ward, Wairarapa south of Woodville, and Wellington.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
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 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 heavy rain has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are likely where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Floodwaters and debris flows will probably render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities are likely to temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flight delays and cancellations at airports are probable.
Localized business disruptions are likely in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for delivery delays throughout the affected area. Allow extra time to reach destinations and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that become impassable. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
