06 Mar 2021 | 02:53 PM UTC
Coral Sea: Minor damage and two injuries after TC Niran impacts parts of the territory, March 6 /update 7
TC Niran causes minor damage and two injuries in New Caledonia, March 6. Weather impacts likely to diminish from early March 7.
Event
Category-3 Severe Tropical Cyclone Niran continues to weaken as it moves away from New Caledonia, early March 7. As of 2300 NCT March 6, the center of circulation was approximately 380 km (236 miles) southeast of Noumea. Forecast models indicate the system will weaken further as it tracks southeastward into the southern Pacific Ocean through at least March 8. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
As of early March 7, the storm has resulted in minor damage to property across New Caledonia, particularly on Grand Terre, and injured two people. Debris has reportedly blocked multiple road routes. Power outages have also been widely reported. Damage assessments are likely to be updated during the course of the morning, March 7.
Government Advisories
Authorities in New Caledonia will maintain the territory on level two tropical cyclone alert until 0800 NTC March 7. During this period officials recommend that persons do not leave their homes. From 0800 March 7, the country will enter the backup phase when officials recommend that persons limit travel, among other measures. Officials will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days. Weather warnings could remain active even after the system's immediate threat has diminished, as some areas may still be highly susceptible to rain-induced hazards. Localized evacuations could occur if weather conditions prove particularly hazardous.
Hazardous Conditions
The storm will probably bring further heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas to coastal areas of New Caledonia through at least March 7. Sustained heavy rain could trigger further flooding in low-lying communities near streams, creeks, and rivers, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs could experience flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in steeply sloped terrains. Flooding could isolate some communities for several days.
Prolonged swells and storm surge generated by the system will likely result in coastal flooding, particularly as the system moves closer to land. Abnormally high tides are likely and could exacerbate storm surge throughout coastal New Caledonia. Persistent onshore flow could make it difficult for surge to recede and water levels to decrease in coastal river catchments. In addition to the heavy rain, flooding, and storm surge, further damaging wind gusts are possible. Additional power outages, due to uprooted trees and toppled utility lines, are possible.
Transport
Inclement weather associated with the storm could trigger some localized business, transport, and utility disruptions through at least March 7. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Areal flooding in urban locations could also result in severe traffic congestion, while strong winds will pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Heavy rain and low visibility may trigger flight disruptions at regional airports. Disruptions caused by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions improve. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may exacerbate residual disruptions.
Advice
Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the high potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks. Keep any necessary medications in a waterproof container.
Plan accordingly for commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or going to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
