Warnings Galore As Long Weekend Travellers Return
by NZTA · SCOOPPeople travelling home tomorrow after a long weekend away are being urged to take extra care, and to keep an eye on weather and roading reports, as the South Island is subject to multiple rain and wind warnings.
MetService has orange heavy rain warnings in place tomorrow for Fiordland, the headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers, the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers about and south of Arthur's Pass, and the Westland, Grey and Buller Districts. An orange heavy rain warning means that streams and rivers may rise rapidly, and surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions are possible.
In addition to the rain warnings, there are orange strong wind warnings tomorrow as severe northwest gales are expected to buffet Fiordland, Southland, Stewart Island, Otago, and Canterbury’s high country and plains. An orange strong wind warning means damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures is possible, while driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.
A number of these warnings carry over into early Tuesday morning. New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) reminds people that heavy rain means slippery roads and drivers should think about adjusting their speed and travelling distances, avoiding sudden braking, and staying visible (using headlights in daytime hours).
People are also urged to avoid driving through any floodwaters, especially where the depth is unclear and there may be hidden obstructions. NZTA contractors will be monitoring the state highway network and will respond to any slips or obstructions that need clearing.
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Those operating motorcycles, towing vehicles, and high-sided vehicles like campervans, should take extra care in high winds – especially in exposed areas – and consider pulling over if feeling unsafe.
Stay up with the latest status of the state highways at NZTA’s Journey Planner site.
NZTA’s holiday traffic predictor for State Highway 1 south of Christchurch, based on previous years’ travel patterns, suggests that 12.30pm to 6pm tomorrow will be busy for northbound traffic (see copy below), and people should consider planning around this.
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