Weather
A strong and very cold southwesterly airstream will bring further snow to low levels in parts the South Island, and west to southwest gales, severe in some places.
This continues to be a significant weather event. Strong winds could make driving hazardous, especially for high sided vehicles and motorcycles. Snow is also expected to affect many higher roads and passes across the South Island, causing disruption to travel.
Also, the combination of snow and strong cold southwest winds is likely to cause stress to livestock. People are urged to take extra precautions, especially those travelling, and to stay up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings for their area.
Heavy Snow Warning
Heavy snow may disrupt travel in affected areas and could damage trees and powerlines. Cold conditions may cause stress for livestock.
Area: Southland south of Riversdale, Stewart Island, and Clutha south of Clinton
Valid: 7 hours from 9:00am to 4:00pm Tuesday
Forecast: Heavy snow is expected above 300 metres where a further 5 to 10cm of snow may accumulate in some places. Please note, that further snow showers are expected down to sea level through this evening, but should become isolated and ease.
Still plenty of showers for the South Island today, and many of those falling as snow☃☃ Heavy snow still expected for the south and possibly for the northwest too.
Keep the Radar on hand today via https://t.co/prKU7O2R01 ^MM pic.twitter.com/Z3G0reVn8d
— MetService (@MetService) September 28, 2020
Heavy Snow Watch
Area: Dunedin, Clutha about and north of Clinton, Central Otago south of Alexandra, and Southland about and north of Riversdale
Valid: 8 hours from 9:00am to 5:00pm Tuesday
Forecast: Periods of snow are expected. Snow accumulations may approach warning criteria above 300 metres in some places. Please note, further snow showers are expected through this evening, but should become isolated and ease.
Strong Wind Watch
Area: Dunedin and Clutha
Valid: 6 hours from 9:00am to 3:00pm Tuesday
Forecast: Southwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.
Roading Update:
Southland closures
- SH94 Te Anau to Milford Sound Piopiotahi
- SH93 Clinton to Mataura
- SH96 Ohai to Wrey’s Bush
- SH6 Lowther to Parawa
- SH6 Wye Creek to Lumsden and Kingston – chains essential
Source: metservice.com