Heavy snow warning - drivers urged to take care

A heavy snow warning issued tonight by the MetService could see snow down to lake level in the Queenstown Lakes District tomorrow morning, Queenstown Lakes District Council emergency management officer Brenden Winder said.

“We don’t anticipate this will be heavy snow down at lake level but nevertheless people should be prepared and carry chains and listen in to local radio stations in the morning for any cancellation notices or messages,” Mr Winder said.

With up to 10cm of snow forecast down to 400-500 metres it was likely the thicker snowfall would be confined to higher hilly areas and the Crown Range Road.

“Our roading contracter, Downer EDI Works will monitor the situation from 5.30am tomorrow morning,” Mr Winder said.

Downer had five grit trucks geared up (four with ploughs) for an 5:30am start on Wakatipu routes, and three for an 5:30am start on Wanaka routes (two with ploughs) including the Crown Range run.

“Additional resources will be called if required but we are hoping that will not be necessary,” Mr Winder said.

Snow showers were forecast to continue into Friday morning, possibly adding a further 1 to 2cm of snow.

“It’s definitely time to throw the chains in the back of the car. Winter driving will apply, that means slow down and drive to the conditions,” Mr Winder said.

Any school notices or delays or changes to bus timetables would be broadcast on local radio stations from around 7am.