Farmers bracing for cold snap

Photo / Wairarapa Times-Age

Farmers and grape growers in both islands are being warned to braces themselves for a cold snap that will start on Sunday in the south and reach the North Island on Monday.

Heavy snow, wind chills below zero and frosty conditions are all forecast between Sunday and Wednesday.

Brief snow storms were normal for mid-October but that would be cold comfort to those in the rural sector, WeatherWatch.co.nz chief analyst Philip Duncan said today.

"This is looking like a short, sharp, snap but with a high moving in behind it, it means frosty weather will follow."

Mr Duncan said grape growers in both islands would need to be aware of looming frosts, which might be severe.

Snow was likely to affect farms down to low levels in the South Island's southern and eastern regions, along with snow on higher altitude farms in the North Island.

"Our data suggests snow is likely at this stage but it doesn't look to be a repeat of the September snow storm.

"However, the colder air will reach much further, moving well into the North Island along with strong to gale force winds."

It was this combination of cold air and strong, cold, winds that could prove stressful and deadly to newborn lambs, rather than the snow itself.

The heaviest snow was likely around Southland above 200m, with lighter snow in other regions.

Federated Farmers president Don Nicolson said yesterday he estimated farmers lost $50 million due to snow, icy rain and chilling winds last month.

- NZPA