As parts of the South Island are still cleaning up after last week’s severe weather, another significant system is expected to land tomorrow that could cause more disruption for road users.

Those planning to travel home tomorrow after being away for the long weekend are being urged to keep a close watch on the weather and conditions on the state highways, which may include heavy snowfalls in places.

Roading teams for New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) – which have been busy dealing with the recent impacts of flooding, slips and downed power lines – are standing ready to respond to new incidents arising tomorrow (Labour Day) or Tuesday.

MetService has multiple orange* warnings in place tomorrow for the central and lower South Island (*orange signifying that people need to be prepared and take action as appropriate, because there may be disruption to their day and potential risk to people, animals and property).

These include:

• An orange heavy snow warning for the Canterbury high country south of State Highway 73 tomorrow afternoon/evening, with 10 to 15cm expected to settle above 500 metres, and 20 to 30cm above 800 metres about the Mackenzie Basin.
• Road snowfalls warnings for the alpine passes, Milford Road, Crown Range Road and the Dunedin-Waitati Highway/State Highway 1, with 15 to 25cm or more to potentially accumulate above 700 metres at Arthur’s Pass.
• Orange heavy rain warnings for the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers about and north of Arthur’s Pass/SH73, and the ranges of the Westland District north of Haast.
• Strong wind watches for the Canterbury high country and Banks Peninsula. 

NZTA urges road users to plan ahead and adjust their driving to the conditions. Snow and heavy rain can cause loss of traction and motorists should think about adjusting their speeds and travelling distances, avoiding sudden braking and staying visible.

In high winds, those driving high-sided vehicles, motorcycles and towing vehicles should be especially cautious.

State highways may potentially close or have restrictions placed on them where obstructions arise or public safety is at risk.   

Stay up to date on weather conditions at the MetService site , and on the status of the state highways at our Journey Planner site.