Caution urged: Canterbury weather and roads update

Canterbury Police are advising motorists to be extra cautious overnight and tomorrow morning as the possibility of ice on roads poses an additional hazard to drivers.

Although snow may ease off in the coming hours, road conditions are likely to remain challenging through the night, police advise.

Inspector Al Stewart, Canterbury Road Policing Manager, says drivers should be wary of ice hazards which may follow in the wake of snow.

"Drivers need to be aware that while snow is a clearly visible hazard, there may be large areas of ice on the roads later that they will not be able to see - especially in rural and shaded areas. It will be important for people to keep speeds down and drive cautiously - as they have today."

Police continue to urge drivers to assess local road conditions before travelling, and if they do need to drive, to drive to the conditions. "Slow down, extend your following distances and get to where you are going safely," Inspector Stewart says.

"We've been pleased with the way drivers have responded to the conditions today, and urge motorists to be equally careful overnight and tomorrow."

If road conditions are poor, drivers should consider seeking alternative transport, or avoid non-essential travel. Employees should contact their employers about attendance at work and travel to and from work.

-       Only six motor vehicle crashes reported between 12 noon and 4pm, none of them serious.
-       Minor injuries reported in one event.
-       No other reports received by Police of snow-related damage or emergencies.