Severe gales up to 120km/h are forecast for parts of the country on what is shaping up to be a windy Tuesday for some.
MetService has issued orange wind warnings for Wairarapa, Tararua District, and Hawke’s Bay south of Hastings which last until 5pm today.
“Severe gale west to northwest winds gusting 120 km/h in exposed places,” MetService said about the above warning.
“Winds should ease from the south during Tuesday afternoon. Minimal chance of upgrading to a red warning.”
Canterbury High Country was under the same warning until 8am, which has now been lifted.
A yellow strong wind warning is still in effect for coastal parts of Southland, including Stewart Island, and coastal parts of Clutha and Dunedin, until 3pm.
A number of roads down south, including Lindis Pass, Crown Range Road and Milford Road are under snowfall warnings throughout the day.
Another front on the way
Things should clear up on Wednesday before another front moves in down south on Thursday.
“Heavy rain and strong winds are lined up for the South Island again on Thursday as another active frontal system moves in from the southwest,” MetService said.
“This system is forecast to retain the potential for heavy rain and strong winds as it moves across the North Island on Friday.”
Roads in the South Island could be affected by snow fall similar to last week’s cold snap that saw closures.
“While warning amounts of snow are unlikely, the bitterly cold winds and snow may bring stress to livestock. Roads may also be affected.
“There is moderate confidence that warning amounts of rain will accumulate in Buller, Westland, Fiordland and about the headwaters of the Canterbury and Otago lakes and rivers,” MetService said of Thursday’s weather outlook.
As the front moves north on Friday, MetService said warning levels of rain could impact the Tararua Ranges.
There is looking to be a reprieve on the weekend however, as a much-welcomed high is set to move over the country.
