New Zealand: Severe weather forecast across parts of the central region through at least Nov. 15

Severe weather is forecast across parts of central New Zealand through at least Nov. 15. A low-pressure system over the Tasman Sea is forecast to cross the South Island late Nov. 14, bringing heavy rain to several areas around central New Zealand and the west of the South Island.

As of Nov. 13, 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): ranges of the Tasman District west of Motueka and the ranges of the Westland District; up to 16 cm (6 inches) of rainfall are forecast in affected areas.

• Yellow Heavy Rain Watch: Paparoa Range within the Buller District, headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers south of Arthur's Pass, Bryant and Richmond ranges north of Maungakura/Red Hill, Mount Taranaki/Taranaki Mounga, and Tararua Range.

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 rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks, disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. The disruptive weather may cause further delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Localized business disruptions are possible in areas impacted by severe weather; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.