MetService has issued a severe weather warning for North Otago through to 4pm tomorrow (Thursday 27th July).

During Thursday, a cold showery west to southwest flow will affect New Zealand. Southwest gales are expected about the lower South Island during the morning and afternoon, and there is high confidence of these gales becoming severe about southern parts of Southland and eastern parts of Otago.

There is an Orange Strong Wind Warning in place for Dunedin and North Otago, for the 10 hours from 6am - 4pm Thursday 27th July. Southwest gales are forecast to be severe in exposed places, with gusts reaching 120 km/h.

Strong wind gusts could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures. Driving may be hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.

MetService Strong Wind Warning for Thursday 27th July, 6am - 4pm. (click to expand on mobile)

There is also a Strong Wind Watch in place for the Canterbury High Country for the 6hrs from midnight Wednesday 26th Jul until 6am Thursday 27th July. West to northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.

MetService Strong Wind Watch from midnight 26th July, 6am 27th July. (click to expand on mobile)

Severe Weather Outlook graphic for Thursday 27th July: MetService.

There is also a Road Snowfall Warning for the Lindis Pass as follows

Lindis Pass (SH8)

Valid: 10 hours from 2:00am Thu 27 Jul to 12:00pm Thu 27 Jul

Forecast: Snow is forecast to lower to 700 metres Thursday morning. 1 to 2 cm of snow may settle on the road near the summit with lesser amounts to 700 metres.

People are advised to stay up to date with the latest forecasts.

For the latest updated forecasts and real time conditions in your local area, click on the Waitaki towns below, or go to the Weather category, next to News|Sport in The Waitaki App!

Oamaru

Weston

Kakanui

Hampden

Palmerston

Macraes

Ngapara

Duntroon

Kurow

Otematata

Omarama

Lake Ohau Alpine Village