05 Jan 2022 | 12:19 PM UTC
New Caledonia: Adverse weather forecast nationwide through at least Jan. 7 /update 1
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms forecast across New Caledonia through at least Jan. 7. Disruptions ongoing.
Event
Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecast across New Caledonia through at least Jan. 7. Meteo France New Caledonia has issued orange (the middle tier on a three-tier scale) heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings across the southeast of Grand Terre Island from Dumbea to Bourail through Jan. 6. Yellow heavy rainfall and thunderstorms have been issued for the Loyalty Islands and the rest of Grand Terre with the exception of the far north and L'Ile-des-Pines. Additional rain is forecast through at least Jan. 7, particularly over northern areas. Authorities may issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming day.
Hazardous Conditions
The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. 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 located 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Reports indicate a landslide blocked part of the RT1 in Bourail late Jan. 5. Traffic is also prohibited from using several bridges and raft crossings in the Paita area. Some roads and raft crossings are also impassable in the town of Moindou and roads have been flooded in Pouembout. Additional traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate other low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Floodwaters and related debris may render further bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion.
The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved; it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or debris is cleared. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements prior to travel in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
