The MetService has issued an updated Heavy Snow Watch for Central Otago.

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 Watch:

In the 8 hours from 9:00am to 5:00pm, 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.

If travelling South, please be aware parts of Clutha District, Southland and Fiordland are under a Heavy Snow Warning, and Clutha and Dunedin are under a Heavy Snow Watch

MetService will issue a Severe Weather Watch whenever there is an expectation that conditions may deteriorate to the thresholds specified for the issue of a Severe Weather Warning:

• After the next 24 hours but within 48-72 hours, or
• If there is a high level of uncertainty within the next 24 hours.

MetService will issue a Severe Weather Warning whenever there is an expectation that any of the following weather conditions will occur within the next 24 hours:

• Widespread* rainfall greater than 50mm within 6 hours or 100mm within 24 hours;
• Widespread* snowfall below 1000 metres on the North Island or 500 metres on the South Island with a snow depth of 10cm within 6 hours or 25cm within 24 hours;
• Widespread* severe gales with a minimum mean speed of 90km/h or frequent gusts exceeding 110km/h.

People are advised to keep up to date with Forecasts in case parts of this watch are upgraded to a full warning, or additional areas are added.

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