Wet weather crash prompts warning for motorists

A severe weather watch remained in place for parts of the country this afternoon. Photo / NZME.

One person was extracted from their car and four others were injured after a vehicle hit a bridge barrier in Whitford earlier today, leading police to warn motorists to take extra caution in the wet weather.

Police said emergency services were called to the scene of the crash at Whitford Maraetai Rd, after a car hit a bridge barrier about 1pm.

Five people were injured in the crash. Police said their injuries ranged from "serious to less serious".

"It is raining currently and police advise all motorists to exercise extreme caution on our roads," police said.

"The roads after long fine periods are slippery."

Police advised motorists the road would be closed for some time.

Fire communications shift manager Scott Osmond said three trucks were called to the scene of the crash.

He said the fire crews managed to extricate the trapped person fairly quickly.

Meanwhile a severe weather watch remained in place for parts of the South Island this afternoon.

MetService said the heaviest snowfalls were expected above 300 metres around Southland, southern parts of Fiordland, and Otago. In Clutha 10 to 15cm of snow was likely in places through to tomorrow morning.

"This amount of snow has the potential to be very disruptive affecting many higher roads and passes and making driving conditions hazardous," MetService said on its website.

"Livestock could also be affected, especially those without shelter.