Flooding from heavy rain is affecting state highways in Otago and Southland, with one highway closed and others partially blocked.

State Highway 90 between Tapanui and Waikoikoi is closed due to flooding and a detour is in place.

Southbound traffic should turn right onto Station Road, continue onto Seddon Hill Road, turn left onto Koi Road then back onto SH90. The reverse applies for northbound traffic. People should allow extra time for travel. An update will be provided when the road status changes.

Other highways in the region may be down to one lane or partially blocked, and people should take note of signage and take care where there is water on the roads.

MetService is forecasting rain to continue in some parts, with an orange heavy rain watch in place for the headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers from noon tomorrow, and a heavy rain watch for the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers from 3pm tomorrow.

On wet, slippery roads, motorists are advised to reduce speeds, increase following distances, watch their visibility, and brake carefully. More tips on driving in bad weather here.

Strong wind watches are also in place for tomorrow in the Queenstown Lakes District, Central Otago, Clutha District north of Tapanui and Southland north of Riversdale, and the Canterbury high country.

Stay up to date on weather conditions at the MetService site , and on the status of the state highways at our Journey Planner site.

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