10/7/2017

Ready for winter conditions?

The Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Management Group is advising residents in the region to prepare for winter storms following the prediction of snow at low levels the next few days.

Snow is likely to fall as low as 200 or 300 metres at times from Tuesday until Thursday, with significant accumulations for higher elevations. Up to 30cm, possibly even more, could accumulate on Otago and Canterbury high country stations. This will affect many higher roads, and could cause problems for livestock from Southland to Banks Peninsula

In previous years, heavy snowfall and gales have led to road closures and power outages affecting large parts of Canterbury.

Motorists considering driving over mountain passes in winter are advised to take chains with them in case of snow and to check road conditions and the weather forecast before setting out.

Some things to consider:

• Review your travel plans for the week; avoid driving if possible, otherwise keep driving to a minimum.

• Allow extra travel time if you do need to drive.

• Do a thorough check of the vehicle and all equipment before driving. Travel with extra clothing, food, water, and a phone charger.

There are a number of places people can find information on weather conditions and warnings includingwww.metservice.com and www.nzta.govt.nz

For more information on Canterbury’s hazards and how to prepare, go to the www.cdemcanterbury.govt.nz

Follow our Facebook page for up to date information: https://www.facebook.com/CanterburyEM/

ENDS

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