Rivers could rise rapidly with heavy rains

Despite current dry conditions, forecast heavy rains could cause flooding in Otago this week. Otago Regional Council staff will be keeping a close watch on river levels from Wednesday night to Friday morning.

MetService has issued a severe weather watch with heavy rain forecast for the whole region, with the heaviest rain expected in the Otago headwaters (Southern Alps area). Heavy rain is also expected in the central and coastal parts of the region including the Dunedin City area.

The predicted rainfall intensity could cause rivers to rise rapidly. Localised flooding could also occur in low-lying areas. The heavy rains could also trigger sediment runoff, particularly in the Queenstown Lake District area.

The Otago Regional Council will issue updates on Facebook and Twitter and via the media. River levels and rainfall are also shown on our WaterInfo page, www.orc.govt.nz/waterinfo

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