New Zealand: Severe weather forecast to continue across southern and central South Island and far southern North Island through at least Sept. 3

Severe weather is forecast across parts of southern and central South Island and far southern North Island through at least Sept. 3. Strong northwesterlies are forecast about the central and southern parts of the country, with fronts bringing heavy rainfall to western areas.

As of early Sept. 2, the New Zealand National Meteorological Service (MetService) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:

• Orange Heavy Rain Warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Canterbury Headwaters south of Arthur's Pass; rainfall up to 10 cm (4 inches) is forecast.

• Orange Strong Wind Warning: Canterbury High Country.

• Yellow Heavy Rain Watch: Otago Headwaters and the ranges of Westland.

• Yellow Strong Wind Watch: Fiordland, Southland including Stewart Island, inland Otago, Wellington, and Wairarapa south of about Carterton.

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 likely render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces will probably cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities will likely 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.