Road users are being urged to take extra care on the roads as a barrage of wild weather strikes the central South Island today, with more to come over the weekend.

MetService is warning of severe gale northwesterly winds today in the Canterbury high country, gusting to 120km/h in exposed places. It adds that driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.

Forecasts supplied to New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) warn of potentially damaging gusts for those travelling on State Highways 7 and 73 through the central South Island.

Heavy rain is also expected today in the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers about and south of Arthur's Pass, as well as potential heavy falls in the ranges of the Buller and Grey Districts.

Over the coming weekend, strong wind gusts are expected to continue, and snow is possible for both Arthur’s Pass and Lewis Pass (though significant accumulations are not expected). Ice on the roads may also be an issue from the weekend onwards.

A large number of lightning strikes have been detected on the West Coast through the early hours of this morning, and in one instance lightning strikes are affecting railway signals and level crossings around Otira on State Highway 73. KiwiRail is working to rectify the situation.

KiwiRail advises motorists to stop at level crossings when warnings and barrier arms are active, and to not cross the tracks. If warnings/barrier arms are active for an extended period, motorists should call KiwiRail’s Train Control on 0800 808 400.

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