7 August 2012, 1530 hours

Otago heavy rainfall warning

The Otago Regional Council (ORC) advises North Otago residents to be prepared for possible heavy overnight rain. The Metservice has issued a heavy rain warning for the area from midnight tonight until noon tomorrow.

Up to 140mm of rain is predicted to fall over that time, and residents north of Dunedin and in low-lying river catchments should be ready for possible heightened river levels.

The Kakanui, Shag, Taieri and Kyeburn river catchments may be affected.

Council advises residents to exercise care, and to keep a watch on its Water info website for updates on current rainfall and river levels.

Farmers in areas susceptible to flooding are advised to ensure stock are safe.

The Metservice has issued a snow warning to 800m throughout Otago overnight.

River level and rainfall information is available on the ORC water info webpage www.orc.govt.nz/waterinfo or by phoning 0800 426 463.

ENDS

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