🔥 Trending NZ Southerly Blast: Snow Forecast, Icy Roads, and Wind Warnings

New Zealand is currently experiencing a significant southerly blast, bringing a wintry change across the country. This weather event is expected to cause widespread cold temperatures, strong winds, and substantial snowfalls, particularly in the South Island ²⁵⁶.

Overview of the Southerly Blast

A polar air mass arrived in the South Island on Friday, July 30, 2026, and is projected to extend nationwide by Saturday, August 1, 2026. This will leave New Zealand under a cold southerly flow until mid-next week ². Temperatures are forecast to drop across the entire country within a 48-hour period as this system moves through ².

Snowfall Expectations

South Island

The South Island is expected to bear the brunt of the wintry conditions, with significant snowfalls anticipated at low elevations ³.

• Snow Levels: Snow is forecast to fall below 400 meters, with some areas potentially seeing snow as low as 200 meters ²³⁵. There is even a possibility of snow reaching sea level in some southern regions ².
• Impact on Transport: Low-level snowfalls and alpine pass closures are expected to disrupt highland and coastal road users across the South Island starting from Friday, July 30, 2026 ⁶. The New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi has urged motorists to prepare for these disruptions ⁶.
• Specific Regions: While specific depths are not universally provided, ski resorts like Treble Cone are likely to see fresh snow, enhancing conditions ⁴.

North Island

While the most severe conditions are concentrated in the South Island, the North Island will also experience a noticeable drop in temperatures and some snow, particularly in elevated areas.

• Bay of Plenty: Despite being less affected than the South Island, the Bay of Plenty region can still expect a significant temperature drop ³.
• Central North Island: Snow is also possible in higher parts of the central North Island ².

Other Weather Impacts

Beyond snow, the southerly blast will bring a range of other severe weather conditions:

• Strong Winds: Severe gales are expected, particularly in parts of the South Island and lower North Island ⁶¹⁰. Strong wind watches are in place ¹⁰.
• Rain and Thunderstorms: Wet and windy weather is returning across Aotearoa, with heavy rain and thunderstorms possible ⁹¹⁰. Meteorologist John Law noted that thunderstorms are "pinging" as the bitterly cold air and strong winds combine in the South Island ⁷.
• Cold Temperatures: Temperatures will turn "bitterly cold," with cities like Wellington and Christchurch possibly reaching only 8°C or 9°C ⁷⁹.
• Frosts: Following the initial snow and squally showers, sunshine and frosts are expected as the cold air settles ².

MetService has issued severe weather outlooks and warnings, advising the public to stay updated on forecasts and prepare for challenging conditions ¹.