South Island alpine Passes Brace for Snowfall as Warnings issued
By Amelia Davies | WELLINGTON – 2025/09/06 12:13:12
(File photo)
Photo: Facebook / Queenstown Lakes District Council
South Island alpine passes are under snowfall warnings from Saturday night into Sunday, with potential disruptions to travel.
MetService issued warnings for the lewis Pass, Arthur’s Pass, Crown Range Road, Milford Road and Haast Pass, alerting travelers to hazardous conditions.
Meteorologist Silvia Martino said snow flurries were forecast to 200 metres for Clutha and 300 metres for Fiordland, Southland and Dunedin, which could affect other high roads.
The Transport Agency reported that part of the highway (SH94) between Milford and Te Anau remained closed as clearance of snow and avalanche debris continued, with no detour available.
Heavy snow was expected into early Sunday,with the road expected to re-open about midday Sunday,according to the agency’s Saturday night update.
“Heavy snow was expected into early Sunday…with the road expected to re-open about midday Sunday.”
Understanding Snowfall and Alpine Weather
Frequently Asked Questions About Snowfall in Alpine Regions
- What causes heavy snowfall in alpine regions?
- Alpine regions experience heavy snowfall due to a combination of low temperatures and orographic lift,where air is forced to rise over mountains,cooling and condensing to form precipitation.
- How do snowfall warnings impact travel?
- Snowfall warnings can lead to road closures, travel delays, and hazardous driving conditions, particularly in alpine passes.
- What safety precautions should be taken during snowfall events?
- Travelers should check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling, carry emergency supplies, and drive cautiously in snowy conditions.
