Southlanders urged to avoid travel
Southlanders urged to avoid travel
Emergency
Management Southland and the Police are urging motorists to
avoid non-essential travel tomorrow morning, until the
condition of the roads is known.
Metservice forecasts suggest further snowfall tonight, with snow showers likely to continue through Wednesday and Thursday and freezing temperatures making conditions difficult.
Roads are expected to become even more treacherous, with frozen snow and ice.
Invercargill Police response manager Senior Sergeant Bruce Terry said there were a number of crashes today that were unnecessary and emergency staff are having to go into dangerous situations to assist.
“After this morning, when we had frozen snow and black ice, we are expecting more tomorrow. People need to stay off the roads until it is safer, drive carefully and not take any risks.”
Senior Sergeant Terry said employers and the community understand there may be some delays given the weather conditions.
Emergency Management Advisor Craig Sinclair said those who need to travel are advised to stick to main roads where possible and carry chains if available.
People who have hospital appointments should contact the hospital first before travelling to ensure their appointments are going ahead.
Information on road conditions is being regularly updated on the AA and NZTA websites and Mr Sinclair said it is worth remembering the capability of emergency services is also limited in severe weather conditions, and they may not respond as quickly as they usually would.
Those around the region are also reminded to look out for each other and check on neighbours, particularly those elderly or living alone to see if they need any assistance.
ENDS