It’s time to stack your firewood baskets as an intense cold outbreak is forecast for much of the region in the coming days.

The outbreak is expected to affect the Upper Clutha on Wednesday (October 5) and Thursday (October 6) with snow, wind, and bitterly cold temperatures, the MetService says.

The amount of snow is unlikely to justify a widespread warning, but there is a high probability that many South Island roads, including the Crown Range, will be affected.

Temperatures will struggle to reach double figures on Wednesday and Thursday with occasional snow showers forecast Wednesday afternoon. A southeasterly change later on Wednesday will bring freezing temperatures Wednesday night.

Communications meteorologist Lewis Ferris said Tuesday will start off fine and frosty with afternoon temperatures possibly in the high teens before the cold air moves in late afternoon.

“Rain could quickly become sleet, before turning to snow, when the coldest air moves in on Wednesday.“

Wednesday’s high of 9°C, when combined with the windchill, will feel much colder, he said.

The MetService is advising farmers to be aware of the potential stress to livestock, especially young animals, and for travellers to keep an eye on road conditions across the South Island.

Much of the South Island is on a ‘snow watch’ from 11pm Tuesday night to midday on Thursday with snow expected to lower to 200 metres in some places.

Road conditions will be updated in the Reports section of your Wānaka App.

IMAGE: MetService