MetService have issued a severe 'Orange' weather warnings for Southland, from 10am till 5pm today (13 Sept).

Graphic: MetService

The service has forecast severe gale west to southwest winds of up to 120km/hr in exposed places.

The area extends from Gore south and Stewart Island.

Dunedin southeast of Middlemarch and Clutha southeast of Tapanui are also likely to be affected.

MetService said that damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures was possible. They also warned motorists that driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.

A strong 'Yellow" wind watch was also issued, for the same period, for North Otago, Central Otago south of Cromwell, Southern Lakes south of Arrowtown, and remaining parts of Dunedin Clutha and Southland outside the Warning area.

Meanwhile the Milford Road, SH94, remains closed due to an increased avalanche hazard and overnight snow.

As at 7,30am, NZTA said assessments of avalanche conditions were presently taking place at present and then snow clearing would begin.

The highway is expected to reopen around midday but close again at 5pm for more snowfall.

Indications are that once the road opens on Sunday morning it will remain open until Monday, they said.