HEADS-UP for intense low and change in temperatures this coming week.

MetService is forecasting a deep and intense low to move onto the South Island from the Tasman Sea on Tuesday, crossing the country Tuesday night and spreading its associated front over the North Island on Wednesday. Although this is a fast moving low, significant weather is forecast which includes widespread severe gales and heavy rain as well as snow for the ranges in the south.

“Strong northwesterly winds arrive during Tuesday and will affect most of the country,” said MetService communications meteorologist Lisa Murray, “There is a high confidence that wind speeds will reach warning criteria in exposed places over much of the South Island and the lower North Island, from Taranaki across to Hawkes Bay southwards.”

Heavy rain is forecast for the West Coast, spilling over the ranges into eastern areas of the South Island on Tuesday. The low is expected to move away to the southeast on Wednesday, but an associated front may still bring heavy rain to Northland, Auckland, Coromandel Peninsula and the Bay of Plenty.

“After having such mild weather in recent weeks, people will really feel the drop in temperatures, especially in the South Island, where the heavy rain will fall as snow about the ranges,” said Murray, “Anyone planning to go tramping or camping should check the weather forecast and associated warnings carefully as some places will have a combination of severe gales, heavy rain and snow.”

Mountain Safety Council are advising people to prepare for winter-like conditions and consider postponing trips if necessary. You can use their Plan My Trip tool to plan your trip at: http://info.metraweather.com/e/60812/uhhXMr/fdh1xj/624039529

“This weather may lead to significant disruptions to travel and could cause damage to infrastructure such as powerlines and roads in the worst affected areas,” advised Ms. Murray, “Those with newly shorn sheep or anyone contemplating shearing should be aware of the approaching weather to protect their stock.”

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