South Island Faces Heavy Snow as Antarctic Blast Brings Chill

Snowfall has blanketed the South Island of New Zealand, leading to the closure of two major highways due to hazardous conditions. A southerly flow from Antarctica is delivering freezing temperatures, strong winds, and rain across much of the country, impacting travel and daily life.

Temperatures plummeted overnight, especially in Southland, where Alexandra recorded a low of 1.5°C and Manapouri dropped to a chilly -1.5°C. The wintry blast has resulted in snow accumulation on various routes, prompting warnings for motorists.

The Queenstown Lakes District Council reported significant snowfall on the Crown Range and State Highway 85 (SH85) last night. Motorists traveling on these roads today are required to use chains for safety. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) confirmed that SH87 closed at 6:10 a.m. and SH85 followed shortly after at 9:00 a.m. due to heavy snow.

There are currently no detours available for either closed route, and the NZTA has urged travelers to reconsider their journeys. The agency emphasized the importance of safety amidst the challenging conditions.

As the weather system continues to evolve, residents and visitors are advised to stay informed about road conditions and potential further closures. The combination of snow, ice, and strong winds poses significant risks, and caution is paramount for anyone planning to travel in the affected areas.

This winter weather event highlights the unpredictable nature of New Zealand’s climate, particularly during the transition from summer to autumn. As temperatures remain low, the potential for further snow and ice in the coming days could impact more regions across the South Island.

Residents are encouraged to prepare for continued winter conditions as weather forecasts suggest that the Antarctic blast will linger, bringing additional frosty mornings and challenging travel conditions.