Spring may be here, but winter is making a brief reappearance with drivers in the South Island warned not to get caught out by snow tonight and tomorrow.
A cold front sweeping up from the south was forecast to bring sleety showers, snow and a “noticeable wind chill” to Te Waipounamu, MetService said.
“These areas in the south may see snow down to 300 metres but likely falling even lower in Southland, the forecaster said.
New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) urged motorists to take extra care and warned snow and ice could catch some drivers off-guard after a stretch of warmer weather.
“Snow is expected about State Highway 1 Dunedin to Waitati tonight until tomorrow morning and down to 200 metres,” it said.
Alpine passes were also forecast to receive some snow, with State Highway 94 (Milford Rd) currently closed from the Hollyford Rd intersection to Donne River Bridge.
It was expected to reopen by 10am on Wednesday.
Strong northwesterly winds today prompted a wind watch from MetService for Otago, Southland, Fiordland, Stewart Island, and the Canterbury High Country.
These winds were forecast give way to a cooler air mass brought in by southwesterlies, with frosty mornings expected across the South Island through to Friday.
NZTA encouraged road users to adjust their driving to the winter-like conditions.
‘Make sure you are visible, reduce your speed, adjust your travelling distance behind other motorists and avoid sudden braking or turning movements.”
