The Transport Agency says while the worst of the snow associated with the winter storm that swept up the South Island yesterday closing several highways has passed, there are still several problem areas on the highway network.
Some highways have had major snow falls which Transport Agency contractors are working hard to clear. Up to a metre of snow has fallen on SH8 at the Lindis Pass and on SH6 in the Haast Pass area.
The highway closure situation at 10am 19 June 2015:
West Coast
SH73 – closed, Porters to Otira
SH7 – open over pass, SH7 – west side closed at Stillwater
SH6 – closed , Haast –Makarora – snow
South Canterbury
SH 8 – closed, Pleasant Point – Fairlie
SH8– closed, Fairlie – Lindis Pass
SH80 – closed
SH79 – closed , Geraldine- Fairlie
Otago
SH8 closed Lindis Pass - Omarama
SH6 closed Haast Pass
The Transport Agency Journey Manager Lee Wright says the main areas of concerns are highway are through inland Canterbury and the alpine passes. Another trouble spot are the floods and slips on the West Coast highway network, with heavy rain in the region for over 24 hours. This is expected to continue through most of today.
Ms Wright says in these sort of winter conditions people should allow more time for their trip, be prepared for unexpected hazards such as slips, snow, ice and surface water. Anyone travelling on their own, should let someone know the route they are taking and what time they expect to reach their destination.
For the latest on road information freephone 0800 4 HIGHWAYS 0800 44 44 49 or visit the Transport Agency’s website: www.highwayinfo.govt.nz(external link)
