It’s time to stack your firewood baskets as an intense cold outbreak is forecast for much of the country in the coming days.

From Tuesday night (October 4) until Thursday unseasonable snow could return to much of the South Island, including Central. 

Communications meteorologist Lewis Ferris said Tuesday starts off fine and frosty with afternoon temperatures possibly in the high teens before the cold air moves in late afternoon.

“Rain could quickly become sleet, before turning to snow, when the coldest air moves in on Wednesday.“

Wednesday’s high of 10°C, when combined with the windchill, will not feel like double digits. The cold is something to be aware of for livestock, especially the young ones.

Tomorrow expect fine and frosty to start, then cloud increasing. Rain from late afternoon as northwesterlies change southerly, becoming sleety in the evening.

A heavy snow watch is in force for Wednesday and part of Thursday for areas above 400m and snow showers are possible in the likes of Alexandra; and some snow could fall to lower lying areas as well, with the potential to affect transport, livestock and crops.    

Hopefully, you have held off planting anything easily affected by frost as there is a run of frosty mornings coming up with -3°C possible on Thursday morning.

There will be southerly gales too, especially in the east from Invercargill to Wellington. 

To find out how to vote around Central go to The Central App special Election 2022 section

Those travelling during the school holidays need to check Weather forecasts and Roads reports before leaving.  

Snow is likely to affect many parts of the South Island and some roads over the lower and central North Island. 

If you are working on Central’s farms and orchards be prepared - steel yourself for frost fighting and getting feed out in freezing conditions.

Stay updated with the roads, and weather, by clicking on Reports button on The Central App’s main menu. 

New born lambs, needing some extra care as weather changes - PHOTO: The Central App, Rough Ridge Farm, Ida Valley

Are you braving the elements? Send in your weather action shots: [email protected]