A forecast cold front is set to bring snow to much of the Southern Lakes area this weekend with falls expected to extend into Southland, the Mackenzie Basin and other parts of South Canterbury.

Snow fall is expected on the Haast Pass from 2am on Saturday, while the Crown Range and Lindis Pass will be affected on Saturday (May 18) morning. The MetService says the front may “stall” which could result in heavy snow in some places.

NZTA Southland and Otago journey manager Nicole Felts advised people driving in these areas to be prepared for snow, to drive to the conditions and to check the weather before setting off.

The 965-meter-high Lindis Pass is expected to be the hardest hit with up to 10 centimetres of snow forecast, possibly as low as 300 metres.

The NZTA says anyone driving that route (as well as Burkes Pass, the entrance to the Mackenzie District, around Lake Tekapo and Twizel and SH80 the highway into Mt Cook/ Aoraki) should be prepared.

People should expect disruptions during this time and avoid travelling on Saturday night.

“Get to where you are going early, rather than later,” Nicole said.

NZTA’s tips for driving in icy or light snow conditions:

• Drive slower than normal
• Slow ahead of bridge decks and shaded parts of the highway where it can be slippery with black ice a possibility.
• Avoid sudden braking or turning movements that can cause you to skid
• Gritted roads will help give traction but also require a slower speed
• Use your highest gear when travelling uphill and your lowest downhill
• Double the two second following rule at least – it takes longer to stop on ice
• If it is foggy, drive with your lights dipped
• Plan your trip to avoid the coldest times of the day or night if you can.
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