tnweather.net

Weather warnings have been issued for much of New Zealand’s South Island as a cold snap hits the country this week.

High pressure currently centred over Tasmania will slip south and slightly eastwards to the west of New Zealand over the next few days introducing Antarctic air up across New Zealand. An active cold front, associated with a low pressure system to the east of the country, is forecast to spread across the South Island, bringing heavy rain to many parts before Thursday. Gale force, cold southerly winds will follow in behind the front, turning the rain into snow.

The Met Service issued warnings for heavy rain across Fiordland and southern Westland. Some areas may see in excess of 80mm (3 inches) tonight. When the cold air arrives tomorrow, heavy snow and blizzard conditions are likely over the hills of northern Southland, South Canterbury and inland Otago over the next few days. The Met Service has warned that up to 20cm (8 inches) could fall, making driving conditions treacherous and cutting off roads and passes over higher ground.

The opening dates of the New Zealand skiing season vary between resorts, but most of these are due to open during the last week of June. This heavy snow event will see a good covering of snow on the slopes a month before the opening date.