Australia: Severe weather forecast across parts of northwestern Tasmania through Nov. 28

Severe weather is forecast across parts of northwestern Tasmania through Nov. 28. A low-pressure system in the Bass Strait is generating a rain band over the north of Tasmania. The rain is likely to ease the afternoon and evening of Nov. 28 as the low tracks eastward. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall for parts of the North West Coast, Western, Central North, and Central Plateau forecast districts. Six-hourly rainfall totals of 3.5-5 cm (1.4-2 inches) are likely with isolated totals up to 6 cm (2.4 inches). A minor flood warning is in place for the North Esk River. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.

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 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.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render further bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites. Electricity and telecommunications service disruptions are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.