Police are warning motorists to take care on the roads as snow is expected to fall on the Desert Road, State Highway 1 tonight.

The MetService has issued a snowfall warning for the Desert Road tonight and early tomorrow morning saying snow could accumulate up to and between 10 to 15cm.

Police are urging motorists to take care on the roads as weather conditions are less than ideal in some areas.

Drivers are reminded to ensure they drive to the conditions, reduce their speed where necessary and increase their following distances.

When driving in winter conditions, Police also advise motorists to allow extra time for their journey and to be aware of other road users who may not be easily seen, such as cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.

Motorists need to ensure they keep windscreens clean and fully defrosted, and that they take care in covered areas where there may be black ice on the roads.