The NZ Transport Agency is advising drivers crossing the South Island’s alpine passes, especially SH73 and travelling on the West Coast from tomorrow (Wednesday) through to Friday to check the weather forecast before they travel –http://www.metservice.com/warnings/severe-weather-warningsand plan ahead to avoid delays by checking the NZ Transport Agency Journey website www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz or calling 0800 44 44 49 for 24/7 road condition information on closures or delays.

The West Coast storm could bring heavy rain, strong winds, and high tides. This could result in road closures from slips, flooding and debris on the roads.

“Please drive with extreme care and patience and slow down,” said Transport Agency Journey Manager Lee Wright. “Our contract teams will be working hard to keep the main highways open, passable and safe”.

The Metservice have put out the following advisories:

Heavy Rain Warning for Westland

Westland Rain with heavy falls expected from overnight Wednesday through Friday morning. Expect 250 to 380mm to accumulate south of Otira, and 180 to 250mm further north, especially about the ranges. Peak intensities 30 to 40mm per hour. Note, the combination of strong winds and high tides may cause inundation about the coast.

Severe Wind Watch for Buller

Strong Wind Watch Area: Westland and Buller Valid: 24 hours from 3:00am Thursday to 3:00amFriday Forecast: Northeasterly gales developing early Thursday morning, turning northwesterly gales Thursday afternoon then strong to gale southwesterly early Friday morning. Winds may reach severe gale strength in exposed places during Thursday.

Severe Wind Watch for Westland

Strong Wind Watch Area: Westland and Buller Valid: 24 hours from 3:00am Thursday to 3:00amFriday Forecast: Northeasterly gales developing early Thursday morning, turning northwesterly gales Thursday afternoon then strong to gale southwesterly early Friday morning. Winds may reach severe gale strength in exposed places during Thursday.

Ways to find out what is happening on the highway network:

• Holiday Hotspots here: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic-and-travel-information/holiday-hotspots/
• Facebook NZ Transport Agency South Island
• See the NZ Transport Agency's travel and traffic page here.
• Call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS 0800 44 44 49
• https://twitter.com/NZTACWC (Canterbury/ West Coast)

• https://twitter.com/NZTAOS (Otago Southland twitter page)

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