Significant winter storm forecast to hit the South Island

Monday 24 August 2026 · 3 outlets · 6 reports · updated Tue 25 Aug, 11:24am

In this story MetService, NZ Transport Agency

A low-pressure system is expected to bring heavy rain and snow to the South Island from midweek. The West Coast could see up to 500mm of rain, while snow may fall as low as 400m in central Otago. NZTA has warned that the weather may cause road closures and travel disruptions.

How they headlined it

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Mon 1:07pmTue 5:05am7:18am11:24am

1. NZ HeraldMon 24 Aug, 1:07pm

   South Island winter storm: Heavy rain and snow forecast from Wednesday (opens in new tab)

   • Winter storm looms: Heavy snow and rain forecast across South Island (opens in new tab) Tue 25 Aug, 5:05am
2. StuffMon 24 Aug, 1:17pm

   ‘Significant winter storm’ this week threatens travel disruptions (opens in new tab)

   • Winter storm begins to affect South Island as it brews in Tasman Sea (opens in new tab) Tue 25 Aug, 7:18am
3. 1NewsMon 24 Aug, 1:54pm

   'Significant winter storm' to stall over South Island from midweek (opens in new tab)

   • South Island storm warnings issued as up to 500mm of rain forecast (opens in new tab) Tue 25 Aug, 11:24am