2 July 2013, 1200hrs

Otago flood conditions update

Warm northwest conditions are currently being experienced across Otago. Rain is currently confined to the headwaters of Lakes Wakatipu and Wanaka, although this is not at a particularly high intensity for this area. These lakes are at normal levels for this time of the year and they are not expected to rise significantly.

Further east, the warm conditions are resulting in significant snow melt in the upper parts of the Pomahaka, Manuherikia, and Taieri catchments, and also in North Otago. As a result, river levels are rising steadily, and farmers in these areas should consider moving stock to higher ground.

Warm northwest conditions are expected to continue until Wednesday, although no significant rainfall is expected in central or eastern Otago over the next 48 hours.

Up-to-date river level and rainfall information is available on the ORC Water Info webpage (www.water.orc.govt.nz) or by phoning 0800 426 463.

Further information on flood hazard can be found in the Otago Natural Hazards Database. Flood alerts can also be received via Twitter. See www.orc.govt.nz

ENDS

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