New Zealand: Severe weather forecast across northern and western regions through at least June 14

Severe weather is forecast across northern and western North Island and western South Island through at least June 14. As of early June 13, the New Zealand National Meteorological Service (MetService) has issued the following weather warnings:

• Orange Heavy Rain Warning (middle level on a three-tier scale): Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, and Tasman northwest of Motueka. Rainfall of up to 15 cm (6 inches) is forecast.

• Yellow Heavy Rain Watch: Auckland, including Great Barrier Island, Coromandel Peninsula, Fiordland north of Doubtful Sound, Mt Taranaki, Northland, Taupo, and the ranges of the Westland District.

• Yellow Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Auckland and Northland.

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 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 will likely cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities will probably 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.