Multiple state highways across Otago and South Canterbury have been closed this morning because of snow, ice and flooding.

An NZTA spokesman said the impacts of a severe weather system were still being felt across the lower South Island, with crews working to clear snow where conditions allowed.

Snow and ice have closed State Highway 8 from Fairlie to Lake Pukaki, State Highway 8 from Omarama to Tarras through the Lindis Pass, State Highway 87 from Kyeburn to Outram, State Highway 85 from Kyeburn to Palmerston, and State Highway 85 from Alexandra to Kyeburn.

Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook Village recorded about 25 centimetres of snow over the past 12 hours, with further snow showers possible throughout the day.

Flooding has closed State Highway 1 from Seven Mile Road to State Highway 83 at Hilderthorpe, north of Oamaru. A detour is available for northbound traffic via State Highway 83 and Seven Mile Road, with the reverse applying for southbound traffic.

State Highway 87 is also closed from Factory Road to Cargill Street in Mosgiel, while State Highway 88 is closed from Station Road to Borlases Road between Sawyers Bay and Port Chalmers, near Dunedin. A detour is available via Station Road, Stevenson Avenue and Borlases Road.

The NZTA spokesman urged people to avoid closed sections of highway and take extra care if they needed to travel.

“People should carry warm clothes, water and food in case they get stuck or need to stop and wait for the weather to pass. They should also make sure they have enough battery range or petrol in the tank in case detours or diversions are required.”

He said drivers in heavy rain and flooding should adjust their speed and following distances, avoid sudden braking and use headlights during the day.

“People should avoid driving through floodwaters where the depth is unclear, as there may be hidden obstructions.”