Heavy snow is expected today, with the possibility of heavy rain on Monday. Moreover, severe gale west to southwesterlies are on the cards for parts of New Zealand. Related: Heavy Snow Forecast For Southland and Clutha From Saturday Evening To Sunday Evening
This adverse weather pattern is being caused by a strong southwest flow that is impacting New Zealand. Several troughs embedded within this flow are ushering in snow down to low levels in the southern South Island. This weather pattern is also set to bring potential heavy rain to the region on Monday, along with strong west to southwesterly winds affecting many areas of the country.
The Metservice has issued Heavy Snow Warnings for the southern parts of the South Island. A Heavy Rain Watch is also in effect for Clutha and Southland, and Strong Wind Watches have been put in place for many parts of New Zealand. Authorities are encouraging residents to stay updated with the latest forecasts, as additional areas may be added, and any Watches could be upgraded to Warnings.
The impact of the Heavy Snow Warning is expected to be significant. The expected heavy snowfall may disrupt travel in affected areas and potentially damage trees and powerlines. Additionally, the cold conditions may cause stress for livestock.
Due to ice conditions, State Highway 93 from Clinton to Mataura is closed. Please consider delaying your journey or using an alternative route.
The regions of Otago, south of a line from Queenstown to Alexandra and to Mosgiel, as well as Southland and Stewart Island, are particularly at risk. The warning is in place for 16 hours from 9am Sunday, July 2, to 1am Monday, July 3. During this period, further snow accumulation of 15 to 20 cm is expected above 300 metres, with lesser amounts down to 100 metres.
Similarly, the area of Fiordland about and south of Doubtful Sound is also under a Heavy Snow Warning for 13 hours from 9am to 10pm on Sunday, July 2. Here too, residents can expect heavy snow with a further 15 to 20 cm predicted to accumulate above 300 metres, with lesser amounts down to 100 metres.
The Heavy Rain Watch is in effect for Southland and Clutha for 15 hours from 3am to 6pm on Monday, July 3. Periods of heavy rain are expected, with rainfall amounts possibly approaching warning criteria, especially about the mountains north of Mossburn to Riversdale and Balclutha.
Furthermore, a Strong Wind Watch is in place for Fiordland, Southland, Stewart Island, Clutha, and Dunedin for 10 hours from 4am to 2pm on Monday, July 3. Another period of strong winds is expected, when west to southwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.