An unusually cold southwesterly flow for October is expected to hit Otago today bringing rain, gusty winds and occasional snow showers.
Temperatures were expected to drop from yesterday's 20degC to just 10degC in Dunedin today.
"The combination of strong winds and wintry conditions spell significant wind chill, which can be hazardous for young livestock and is just plain cold to be out in," MetService forecaster Peter Kreft said.
Scattered and heavy showers were expected to hit Dunedin in the afternoon with a few reaching Central Otago and the lakes district.
It would also bring snow showers down to 300m in the Clutha district and 400m in Dunedin.
A ridge of high pressure was predicted to arrive tomorrow bringing fine, frosty conditions on Monday morning.
Southwest gales gusting up to 110kmh were also expected in the Clutha region and Dunedin.
The marine weather forecast today was for high winds and very large waves for much of the south and southwest coast of the South Island.
MetService was predicting storm surges up to 0.4m at Bluff, which would increase predicted tide heights.
Southland regional harbourmaster Kevin O'Sullivan advised boat owners to check moorings, and to keep a close eye on the forecast, remaining in shelter until the weather improved.
