Latest news with #Southern
Otago Daily Times
5 hours ago
- Climate
- Otago Daily Times
Snow-hit highways in Otago open, but care needed
All state highways in Otago have reopened after heavy snow, but motorists are advised to take care amid more snow and rain warnings. Check state highways here A low off the South Island east coast was expected to bring heavy rain to the lower South Island and more snow to inland parts of Otago and Southland on Saturday, MetService says. A heavy snow watch remains in place for Central Otago, Southland north of Lumsden, also inland Dunedin and Clutha from 9am until 7pm today. Periods of heavy snow were expected above 400 metres, where snowfall amounts may approach warning criteria. A heavy rain watch was also in place for Southland about and east of Mossburn from 9am until 3pm today. Periods of heavy rain were expected and amounts may approach warning criteria. There were ice warnings at Middlemarch and Outram, near Dunedin. The NZ Transport Agency/Waka Kotahi said crews had working hard to reopen state highways following heavy snow. State Highway 85 from Omakau to Kyeburn had reopened by 10.15am The Lindis Pass (State Highway 8) from Tarras to Omarama was the next to open by 11am, followed by SH87 from Middlemarch to Kyeburn and SH85 from Kyeburn to Palmerston by 11.20am. A spokeswoman for Southern police said motorists should drive to conditions and allow for extra time on their journey. "Reducing speed, using headlights and windscreen wipers, and wearing seatbelts will also ensure a safe trip. Our roads are unforgiving and less predictable in our icy winter conditions, please drive with caution." In Central Otago, thick snow and ice was affecting roads in the Manuherekia and Maniototo areas, and caution was advised if using them, a spokeswoman for the district council said. By 10am the Ida Valley Omakua Road had reopened. However, rain and snow flurries were continuing and isolated areas of flooding were to be expected throughout Central Otago, she said. The Danseys Pass Road was closed from the gates past the Danseys Pass hotel. Heavy snow was affecting the Crown Range, linking Queenstown and Wānaka this morning, and chains are needed if using the alpine pass. A snow warning was also in place for Southland's Milford Rad (SH94). Ski fields near Wānaka have been blanketed, with Cardona Alpine Resort reporting 29cm of fresh snow overnight and more expected throughout the day. "The forecast has snow continuing throughout the morning and snow flurries over the day. Lifts will be delayed opening. Our teams are out assessing conditions, and we will open terrain as soon as its safe." At Treble Cone, 25cm had fallen in time for the ski field's opening day today. "Triple Treat groomed flat with fresh snow on top and we aim to open Upper Main Street and Big Skite pending patrol setup. Take care if venturing off-trail as this snow is thin. Cafe will be cranking with live DJs this afternoon." Drivers were advised chains were needed at both ski fields. Meanwhile, flood repair works are scheduled for SH1 near Hampden in North Otago and SH8 near Lawrence and Beaumont. Stop and go traffic controls may be in place, RNZ reported. Snow warnings for alpine roads LINDIS PASS (SH8)From midnight on Friday until 9pm on Saturday Snow is forecast to lower to 600 metres, and 3cm to 6cm of snow may settle on the road near the summit with lesser amounts to 600 metres.
Otago Daily Times
6 hours ago
- Climate
- Otago Daily Times
Highways in South reopening but care urged
Some state highways in Otago reopening after heavy snow, but motorists are still advised to take care amid more snow and rain warnings. Check state highways here A low off the South Island east coast was expected to bring heavy rain to the lower South Island and more snow to inland parts of Otago and Southland on Saturday, MetService says. A heavy snow watch remains in place for Central Otago, Southland north of Lumsden, also inland Dunedin and Clutha from 9am until 7pm today. Periods of heavy snow were expected above 400 metres, where snowfall amounts may approach warning criteria. A heavy rain watch was also in place for Southland about and east of Mossburn from 9am until 3pm today. Periods of heavy rain were expected and amounts may approach warning criteria. Southern police are advising motorists to be aware of road closures and to take caution when driving today. The NZ Transport Agency/ Waka Kotahi said crews were working hard to reopen state highways. Heavy snow had closed the Lindis Pass (State Highway 8) from Tarras to Omarama, but the road was open by 11am. SH85 from Omakau to Kyeburn had reopened by 10.15am. However, SH87 from Middlemarch to Kyeburn and SH85 from Kyeburn to Palmerston remained closed. A police spokeswoman said motorists should limit themselves to essential travel only and allow for extra time on their journey. "Reducing speed, using headlights and windscreen wipers, and wearing seatbelts will also ensure a safe trip. Our roads are unforgiving and less predictable in our icy winter conditions, please drive with caution." In Central Otago, thick snow and ice was affecting roads in the Manuherekia and Maniototo areas, and caution was advised if using them, a spokeswoman for the district council said. By 10am the Ida Valley Omakua Road had reopened. However, rain and snow flurries were continuing and isolated areas of flooding were to be expected throughout Central Otago, she said. The Danseys Pass Road was closed from the gates past the Danseys Pass hotel. Heavy snow was affecting the Crown Range, linking Queenstown and Wānaka this morning, and a snow warning was also in place for Southland's Milford Rad (SH94). There were ice warnings at Middlemarch and Outram, near Dunedin. Ski fields near Wānaka have been blanketed, with Cardona Alpine Resort reporting 29cm of fresh snow overnight and more expected throughout the day. "The forecast has snow continuing throughout the morning and snow flurries over the day. Lifts will be delayed opening. Our teams are out assessing conditions, and we will open terrain as soon as its safe." At Treble Cone, 25cm had fallen in time for the ski field's opening day today. "Triple Treat groomed flat with fresh snow on top and we aim to open Upper Main Street and Big Skite pending patrol setup. Take care if venturing off-trail as this snow is thin. Cafe will be cranking with live DJs this afternoon." Drivers were advised chains were needed at both ski fields. Meanwhile, flood repair works are scheduled for SH1 near Hampden in North Otago and SH8 near Lawrence and Beaumont. Stop and go traffic controls may be in place, RNZ reported. Snow warnings for alpine roads LINDIS PASS (SH8)From midnight on Friday until 9pm on Saturday Snow is forecast to lower to 600 metres, and 3cm to 6cm of snow may settle on the road near the summit with lesser amounts to 600 metres.
Otago Daily Times
6 hours ago
- Climate
- Otago Daily Times
Snow-hit highways reopening, but care needed
Some state highways in Otago reopening after heavy snow, but motorists are still advised to take care amid more snow and rain warnings. Check state highways here A low off the South Island east coast was expected to bring heavy rain to the lower South Island and more snow to inland parts of Otago and Southland on Saturday, MetService says. A heavy snow watch remains in place for Central Otago, Southland north of Lumsden, also inland Dunedin and Clutha from 9am until 7pm today. Periods of heavy snow were expected above 400 metres, where snowfall amounts may approach warning criteria. A heavy rain watch was also in place for Southland about and east of Mossburn from 9am until 3pm today. Periods of heavy rain were expected and amounts may approach warning criteria. Southern police are advising motorists to be aware of road closures and to take caution when driving today. The NZ Transport Agency/ Waka Kotahi said crews were working hard to reopen state highways. Heavy snow had closed the Lindis Pass (State Highway 8) from Tarras to Omarama, but the road was open by 11am. SH85 from Omakau to Kyeburn had reopened by 10.15am. However, SH87 from Middlemarch to Kyeburn and SH85 from Kyeburn to Palmerston remained closed. A police spokeswoman said motorists should limit themselves to essential travel only and allow for extra time on their journey. "Reducing speed, using headlights and windscreen wipers, and wearing seatbelts will also ensure a safe trip. Our roads are unforgiving and less predictable in our icy winter conditions, please drive with caution." In Central Otago, thick snow and ice was affecting roads in the Manuherekia and Maniototo areas, and caution was advised if using them, a spokeswoman for the district council said. By 10am the Ida Valley Omakua Road had reopened. However, rain and snow flurries were continuing and isolated areas of flooding were to be expected throughout Central Otago, she said. The Danseys Pass Road was closed from the gates past the Danseys Pass hotel. Heavy snow was affecting the Crown Range, linking Queenstown and Wānaka this morning, and a snow warning was also in place for Southland's Milford Rad (SH94). There were ice warnings at Middlemarch and Outram, near Dunedin. Ski fields near Wānaka have been blanketed, with Cardona Alpine Resort reporting 29cm of fresh snow overnight and more expected throughout the day. "The forecast has snow continuing throughout the morning and snow flurries over the day. Lifts will be delayed opening. Our teams are out assessing conditions, and we will open terrain as soon as its safe." At Treble Cone, 25cm had fallen in time for the ski field's opening day today. "Triple Treat groomed flat with fresh snow on top and we aim to open Upper Main Street and Big Skite pending patrol setup. Take care if venturing off-trail as this snow is thin. Cafe will be cranking with live DJs this afternoon." Drivers were advised chains were needed at both ski fields. Meanwhile, flood repair works are scheduled for SH1 near Hampden in North Otago and SH8 near Lawrence and Beaumont. Stop and go traffic controls may be in place, RNZ reported. Snow warnings for alpine roads LINDIS PASS (SH8)From midnight on Friday until 9pm on Saturday Snow is forecast to lower to 600 metres, and 3cm to 6cm of snow may settle on the road near the summit with lesser amounts to 600 metres.
USA Today
7 hours ago
- Climate
- USA Today
Beyoncé heads to Houston: Parking, bag policy, hot weather at RNG Stadium
She's coming home! Beyoncé Knowles-Carter is headed to her hometown of Houston to kick off her Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin' Circuit Tour at NRG Stadium on Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29. The H-Town stop comes after Beyoncé wrapped the international leg of her tour – first with a six-night stint in London, followed by three dazzling nights in Paris. Of course, Beyoncé first debuted her "Cowboy Carter" tour at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on April 28 with a 39-song set list. Her shows have been filled with family, fashion, different music genres, and most notably country music and cultural commentary. Houston is Beyoncé's first Southern stop on her tour. Here's what to know as fans head to NRG Stadium for the sold-out shows. Logistics: How to get to NRG Stadium Stadium Just minutes from downtown, NRG Stadium is located at1 NRG Parkway, Houston, TX 77054. It is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The Houston Metro and its METRO Rail operate various routes near and around NRG Park. NRG Stadium events utilize Gate 9 on the corner of Kirby and Westridge. Doors of the stadium open at 5 p.m local time. Meanwhile, the show is set to kick off at 7 p.m., though Beyoncé's actual start-time has varied between the 7 p.m. and 8 ticket box office will open at 10 a.m. local time until Beyoncé takes the stage on June 28. On June 29, the office will be open starting at 12 p.m. local time until she hits the stage again. What's the weather in Houston? From the United States to Europe, Beyoncé and her fans have braved severe weather conditions, an evacuation, cold temperatures and rainy weather for her concerts. Fans should take note of the weather in their respective cities before putting on their chic cowboy-core attire. In Houston, fans can expect some rain and hot temperatures. It's important to stay hydrated before and during the nearly three-hour show. Forecasts predict high temperatures with a scorching 91 degrees Fahrenheit expected for the June 28 concert. There's a chance of scattered thunderstorms with temperatures expected to be in the high 80s for the June 29 show. Parking information The parking rate is $50 plus tax for each space at the gate. However, rates are subject to change without notice. According to the site, there is no in-and-out access and fans are required to pay electronically or with a card at the gates. Fans may also purchase parking ahead of the show at Bag policy, prohibited items at NRG Stadium Fans must follow the NFL clear-bag policy at NRG Stadium. Guests are allowed to bring bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12-by-6-by-12 inches. This includes clear backpacks, clear fanny packs and clear cinch bags. Attendees are also permitted to bring one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags, but the logo can only be on one side. Additionally, small, non-clear bags that do not exceed 4.5-by-6.5 inches, with or without a handle or strap, are allowed. Medical bags or kits are acceptable and will be searched at the gate. Small cameras and cell phones are allowed if they are carried in loosely or in an approved clear bag. Non-professional cameras with non-removable lenses are permitted as long as the lens is less than three inches in length. See a full list of prohibited items The nine-city tour will span the U.S. and Europe with the grand finale taking place in Las Vegas on July 26. Follow Caché McClay, the USA TODAY Network's Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reporter, on Instagram, TikTok and X as @cachemcclay.
Otago Daily Times
7 hours ago
- Climate
- Otago Daily Times
Snow shuts highways in South
Snow has closed the Lindis Pass (SH8) in Central Otago on Saturday. Photo: MetService Heavy snow has closed roads in Otago and warnings are also in place throughout the region and in Southland. Southern police are advising motorists to be aware of the closures and to take caution when driving today. The Lindis Pass (State Highway 8) is closed from Tarras to Omarama. SH87 from Middlemarch to Kyeburn is closed, with a warning to avoid this area of or delay your journey if possible, and SH85 from Omakau to Palmerston is also shut. A police spokeswoman said motorists should limit themselves to essential travel only and allow for extra time on their journey. "Reducing speed, using headlights and windscreen wipers, and wearing seatbelts will also ensure a safe trip. "Our roads are unforgiving and less predictable in our icy winter conditions, please drive with caution." The Crown Range summit blanketed in snow this morning. Photo: MetService MetService says a heavy snow watch is in place for Central Otago, Southland north of Lumsden, also inland Dunedin and Clutha from 3am until noon on Saturday. Periods of heavy snow above 400 metres were expected. Heavy snow was affecting the Crown Range, linking Queenstown and Wānaka this morning, and a snow warning was also in place for Southland's Milford Rad (SH94). There are ice warnings at Middlemarch and Outram, near Dunedin. Ski fields near Wānaka have been blanketed, with Cardona Alpine Resort reporting 29cm of fresh snow overnight and more expected throughout the day. "The forecast has snow continuing throughout the morning and snow flurries over the day. Lifts will be delayed opening. Our teams are out assessing conditions, and we will open terrain as soon as its safe." At Treble Cone, 25cm had fallen in time for the ski field's opening day today. "Triple Treat groomed flat with fresh snow on top and we aim to open Upper Main Street and Big Skite pending patrol setup. Take care if venturing off-trail as this snow is thin. Cafe will be cranking with live DJs this afternoon." Drivers were advised chains were needed at both ski fields. Meanwhile, flood repair works are scheduled for SH1 near Hampden in North Otago and SH8 near Lawrence and Beaumont. Stop and go traffic controls may be in place, RNZ reported. Snow warnings for alpine roads LINDIS PASS (SH8) From midnight on Friday until 9pm on Saturday Snow is forecast to lower to 600 metres, and 3cm to 6cm of snow may settle on the road near the summit with lesser amounts to 600 metres. CROWN RANGE ROAD From 2am to 6pm on Saturday Snow forecast to lower to 500 metres, and 4cm to 8cm may settle on the road near the summit with lesser amounts to 500 metres. MILFORD ROAD (SH94) From 2am to 1pm on Saturday Snow forecast to lower to 700 metres, and 2cm to 5cm of snow may settle on the road near the summit with lesser amounts to 700 metres. - ODT Online
