New Zealand: Severe weather forecast across northwestern regions through at least Oct. 30 /update 1

Severe weather is forecast across northwestern New Zealand through at least Oct. 30. A low pressure system is forecast to approach northwestern parts of the country Oct. 29 and an associated front will move over the region late Oct. 29 through Oct. 30, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. Rainfall totals of 9-15 cm (3.5-5.9 inches) and winds gusting up to 130 kph (81 mph) are possible across the affected area Oct. 29-30. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.

As of late Oct. 27, the New Zealand National Meteorological Service (MetService) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:

• Orange Heavy Rain Warning (middle level on a three-tier scale): Northland and the Coromandel Peninsula.

• Orange Strong Wind Warning: Northland, Auckland and Great Barrier Island, and the Coromandel Peninsula.

• Yellow Heavy Rain Watch: Auckland and Great Barrier Island.

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.