Extreme winter weather forecast for Hawke's Bay

Extreme winter weather is expected today with very cold southerlies bringing snow to low levels.

Significant amounts of snow are expected in areas of Hawke’s Bay as well as Gisborne and the central North Island high country from Taupo to Taihape.

Heavy snow in these regions is likely to cause disruption to traffic and make driving conditions very difficult. Farmers are also advised that stock may need shelter from the extreme cold and snow.

Hastings District Council Civil Defence Controller Mike Maguire says travel at night on high country roads should be avoided.

"In particular State Highway 5 (Napier/Taupo Road) and the Taihape Road may be affected. It is likely that the Taihape Road will be closed at nightfall and we will keep a watching brief on State Highway 5."

“People in these higher areas who are likely to need medical assistance in the next 24/48 hours should make arrangements before nightfall this evening” says Mr Maguire.

Hastings District Council Civil Defence has put plans in place should a response be required.