Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency warns drivers heading into Milford Sound/Piopiotahi tonight to be ready for possible snow showers and to carry chains after 6pm.
Elsewhere in Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes District, snow could affect the Crown Range Road (between Wanaka and Queenstown) over the next 24 hours as well as SH8 Lindis Pass to Tarras.
People driving in mountainous areas should check the MetService forecasts before heading out.
MetService forecast(external link)
Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, SH94:
Snow is forecast for tonight from the East Gate/Hollyford to The Chasm. Drivers must carry chains overnight tonight/Tuesday 9 May from 6pm.
Snow is forecast to affect SH94 the Milford Sound highway from early Wednesday morning through Thursday. Drivers may encounter snow clearing equipment during this time, so take care.
Arthur’s and Lewis Passes (SH 73 and SH7) Wednesday evening
Snow showers are possible above 700 metres on both these alpine passes from Wednesday afternoon into the evening with 1-2 cm falling at the summits.
Journey Planner - Canterbury(external link)
Rain warnings over Westland, Grey, Buller districts today
The West Coast highway network performed well today, with numerous squally showers, says Moira Whinham, Maintenance Contract Manager for Waka Kotahi on the West Coast.
Another band of rain is due to pass over later tonight. People should keep an eye on the MetService forecasts if travelling along SH6 plus the Waka Kotahi traffic and travel map.
