Snow is expected to affect the Canterbury region over the coming days, with conditions posing potential challenges for farmers and travellers.

Blue Skies Weather & Climate Services said while tomorrow night’s snowfall is now forecast to occur at a slightly higher altitude, confidence in low-level snow for most of Tuesday has increased.

The weather could affect young livestock and may cause some travel disruptions.

A period of snow will develop late tomorrow evening and continue through the night, clearing by mid to late Monday morning.

Snow accumulations of 5-10cm are likely above 500m, with 10-20cm possible above 700m.

The weather will clear by Monday afternoon, with a dry evening expected.

Early Tuesday morning, widespread low-level snow flurries will develop down to sea level, with more persistent snowfall above 200m.

Accumulations of 3-5cm are likely above 200m, while 1-3cm of snow may fall below that level.

Tuesday will be very cold, with strong gusty southwest winds, which will decrease later in the day. Winds could reach near gale force around Banks Peninsula.

Snow will clear by Tuesday evening, and a heavy frost is likely inland by Wednesday morning.

Tomorrow night, snow is expected to disrupt most alpine passes, continuing into Monday morning.

From early Tuesday, there may be minor disruptions to mountain passes.

Roads on Banks Peninsula and higher elevations on the western Plains, as well as higher parts of State Highway 1 in North Canterbury, could be affected by light snow.

Low-level roads throughout Canterbury, including Christchurch, may also see brief snowfalls during the day on Tuesday.

Strong southerly winds could affect Cook Strait ferry sailings on Tuesday.