The PNG National Weather Service (NWS) has warned of strong winds, heavy rain, thunderstorms and rough seas across several regions of Papua New Guinea over the next three days.
The latest 3-Day Regional Weather Outlook, covering Tuesday September 1 to Thursday September 3, has prompted the National Disaster Centre (NDC) to urge the public, mariners, fishermen and provincial disaster offices to remain alert and take necessary precautions.
The forecast is driven by a trough line extending from the northern PNG–Indonesia border through the northern waters of Manus and New Ireland, while a high-pressure system over south-eastern Australia is extending northward through the Coral Sea.
The NWS has identified two major areas of convergence affecting the country, covering parts of Morobe, Oro, Western, the Sepik region and New Guinea Islands, as well as inland and Highlands areas.
In the Southern Region, isolated showers are expected over inland Central and Oro on Tuesday and Wednesday, becoming scattered over Gulf by Thursday. Areas of rain are also expected over Gulf, Milne Bay and inland Central and Oro.
Strong south-easterly winds of 25–33 knots are forecast across coastal waters from Daru to the Kiwai Islands, Yule Island to Hood Point, and Milne Bay and its islands throughout the three-day period.
For the Momase Region, isolated showers are expected over Morobe, parts of Madang, and East and West Sepik, becoming more widespread during the afternoon and evening. Strong south-easterly winds of 25–33 knots, with stronger gusts, are forecast over waters from Finschhafen to Siassi, Long, Karkar and Manam Islands, including the outer waters of Madang to East Sepik.
The New Guinea Islands will also experience isolated showers, becoming scattered during the afternoons and evenings over parts of Bougainville, southern New Britain and New Ireland.
Strong south-easterly winds of 25–33 knots are expected from West New Britain and Bougainville through Kokopo and New Ireland, extending to the southern and western seaboards of Manus by Thursday.
Across the Highlands Region, scattered showers are forecast each day, with rain and thunderstorms likely to develop during the afternoon and evening.
Scattered morning fog is also expected, although no specific weather warnings have been issued for the Highlands during the outlook period.
The NDC has cautioned that forecast wind speeds are averages and actual gusts may be up to 40 percent stronger, particularly during squalls and thunderstorms.
Maximum wave heights may also reach twice the forecast height.
Mariners, fishermen and coastal communities in affected areas have been urged to closely monitor weather conditions, avoid unnecessary travel on the water during periods of strong winds and follow advice from Provincial Disaster Offices.
The forecasts apply to areas within 60 nautical miles (111 kilometres) of the coastline.
The public can obtain further weather information from the PNG National Weather Service or contact the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) on 113, +675 7999 8666, or 325 2313 for disaster preparedness and response information.