5 Jul 2009

Snow warning for South Island motorists

9:48 pm on 5 July 2009

MetService is warning motorists in the South Island to check whether mountain passes are open before travelling.

The roads are still open but chains are essential on the Porters, Burkes and Lindis Passes and on State Highway 80 from Lake Pukaki To Mount Cook.

At South Canterbury's Waimakariri River snow is expected to continue to settle down to about 400 metres overnight on Sunday and into early Monday morning.

MetService Severe Weather Forecaster Paul Mallinson says it's possible snow could fall in North Canterbury and in the Kaikoura Ranges to about 400 metres.

Mr Mallinson says he's hopeful farmers and those living in the affected areas have enough supplies to hand, so they can avoid using the roads over the next few days.

MetService says farmers with land above 400 metres in North Canterbury and the Kaikoura ranges should be prepared for disruption.