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Torrential rain hits the South, heavy snow warnings in place
Torrential rain has pounded parts of the South Island overnight and it's looking to be a wintry day ahead, with more snow on the way.
Crown Range Road closed yesterday after being blanketed with snow. Photo: MetService
Fifty millimetres of rain fell overnight, and up to 80mm is on its way today.
MetService meteorologist Karl Loots said the rain has been heavy and persistent from Southland to South Canterbury.
While the South Island is getting rain, (elevation) snow & wind, the North Island is also expecting unsettled weather over the next few days.
Showers & thunderstorms are likely (possibly with hail), especially Tuesday. Tuesday AM commute in #Auckland could be impacted.
~Chris pic.twitter.com/Z6x8WLhoPW
— NIWA Weather (@NiwaWeather) November 19, 2018
But the worst affected area is east Otago, where a heavy rain warning is in place until tonight.
Surface flooding and slips are possible today as water levels may rise rapidly.
Meanwhile, a heavy snow warning is in place for Central Otago, Southern Lakes and northern parts of Southland.
Snowing in Queenstown - definitely 4 seasons in 1 day @WeatherWatchNZ pic.twitter.com/XEZ5KfYZOf
— Heidimai (@heidimai_london) November 19, 2018
In some areas, snow has fallen to 400 to 600 metres and more is expected this morning, with significant snow accumulations above 700 metres.
MetService warn that heavy snow may disrupt travel in some areas and trees and powerlines may be damaged.
Part of State Highway 8 in Central Otago is still closed, after flooding caused damage to a culvert last night.
Diversions are in place at Millers Flat and north of Roxburgh.
A 50 km/h speed limit is in place on SH6 between Cromwell and Gibbston after a slip.
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