Significant Winter Storm to Hit New Zealand's South Island from Wednesday with Heavy Snow and Rain

A significant winter storm forecast to hit New Zealand's South Island from Wednesday could bring over 30 centimetres of snow to State Highways 8 and 80 in the Mackenzie Basin and South Canterbury by Thursday.

Original report
www.nzherald.co.nz

Industry impact

Heavy snow forecasts affecting South Island highways signal potential ground-transport disruption that could indirectly increase reliance on air links to and from the region.

A significant winter storm is forecast to move from the Tasman Sea onto New Zealand's South Island on Wednesday, bringing heavy rain to the West Coast and heavy snowfall to inland Otago and South Canterbury. NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) has issued an advanced warning to South Island motorists about potential disruption, while MetService has indicated moderate confidence of snow late Wednesday above approximately 700 metres for Central Otago, the Queenstown Lakes District, and northward to the Mackenzie Basin, with formal warnings potentially to follow.

Private forecasting supplied to NZTA suggests more than 30 centimetres of snow could affect State Highway 8 and SH80 in the Mackenzie Basin and South Canterbury on Thursday, while up to 20 centimetres could fall on SH73 above 700 metres elevation between Christchurch and the West Coast. NZTA said accumulations at this level are likely to impede travel and that it may close sections of highway or introduce restrictions to keep people safe and avoid vehicles becoming trapped.

NZTA said roading crews would work around the clock to clear snow and other obstructions, but urged drivers to check weather forecasts and journey planning information before travelling. The agency advised motorists to reduce speed, increase following distances, avoid sudden braking or turning, and carry warm clothing, food, and water in case of delays or detours.