Drivers are being urged to take extreme care tomorrow morning, as snow and freezing temperatures will mean many Otago and Southland roads are likely to be affected by severe icing.
The NZ Transport Agency and the Police are encouraging motorists to plan their journeys to ensure they keep safe and leave themselves extra time for travel in these conditions.
The Transport Agency’s Otago-Southland Highways Manager, Ian Duncan says the wintry storm that swept through both regions has now been followed by clearing, cold weather, making black ice a real danger. This form of ice is especially treacherous because it cannot be seen.
"Winter roads demand winter driving and Motorists can keep themselves safe by lowering their speeds, increasing their following distances, and taking extra care when cornering.”
Mr Duncan says icy conditions mean trips take longer and Motorists should allow more time and consider departing later in the morning to allow ice to thaw or; earlier in the afternoon before ice has formed.”
Transport Agency monitors the highway network 24/7, in conjunction with Police and our Traffic Operations Centre. This enables us to keep a close eye on our road network, and monitor challenging areas like inland alpine passes and the Kawarau and Manuka gorges, that are all prone to icing he said.
Acting Area Commander Otago Rural Inspector Andrew Burns says the freezing conditions forecast overnight road will make driving extremely difficult.
Mr Burns says it is important that anyone driving over the next 24 hours is aware of the likelihood of black ice right though out Otago and Southland.
The latest winter driving conditions are available at www.highwayinfo.govt.nz, or by calling 0800 44 44 49.
For more information please contact:
Bob Nettleton
Regional Communications Advisor
T: 03 951 3005
M: 021 954 928
E: bob.nettleton@nzta.govt.nz
