Flood Advisory

Tuesday 8 January 2013 2.00pm

Otago river and lake level alert

Otago Regional Council flood managers are closely monitoring river and lake levels, following Metservice weather warnings for heavy rain on and east of the main divide tomorrow evening.

ORC flood manager Matt Hickey said the heavy rainfall would cause river and lake levels to rise in the Wakatipu, Wanaka, and Hawea lakes catchments. People camping and tramping in these areas are advised to take care and be mindful of rising lake and river levels.

Campers in the Manuherikia catchment are advised to be mindful of rising river levels, with rainfall predicted on Wednesday afternoon.

Predicted rainfall in South Otago on Wednesday night, particularly in the Pomahaka catchment, has the potential to significantly increase flows in the already-high lower Clutha River. Farmers in the lower Clutha are advised to move stock and machinery away from low-lying areas.

ORC staff will continue to monitor the situation and issue further updates and specific warnings as required.

River level and rainfall information can be checked on the ORC water info webpage

www.orc.govt.nz/waterinfo or by phoning 0800 426 463

ENDS

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