ORC monitors lake levels and river flows, using MetService forecasts to model the predicted effects of rainfall.
Examples of different warnings we can activate:
Flood watch
There is currently a weather watch in place.
Staff are on standby
We’re tracking conditions. A storm could form, but it might pass without impact.
Be prepared and stay updated.
Weather warning
[who issues a warning] has issued a weather warning.
Conditions are worsening.
Staff are on call and actively monitoring the situation.
Secure property, check supplies, and plan to stay safe.
Weather alert
Weather event is happening (how do we phrase this?)
The anticipated weather event has arrived and impacts are happening now.
Follow official updates and stay out of danger areas.
No warnings
There is no serious weather event expected/anticipated in Otago at the moment. If this should change suddenly, we will update.
Please follow any direction of CEDM
Stay up to date with the current water levels and flows at sites all over Otago. Our water monitoring sites automatically update through the day and night.
Lake level flood or low flow information
Quick like to find the flood or low flow information on lakes in Otago.
Rainfall info (EDP)
Our Environmental Data Portal gives up to date access to rainfall information across Otago.
Lake Wānaka, Lake Hayes and Lake Whakatipu monitoring buoys
This site provides a range of interactive tools to visualise data from Limnotrack's lake monitoring buoys. These solar-powered buoys measure a range of water quality variables in the lake from the surface to near-bottom, as well as recording weather conditions above the lake.
ORC Facebook updates
During a flood event ORC keeps a constant flow of information through our Facebook page as well as our website to reach as many people as possible. Stay safe.
OCDM Facebook updates
Otago Civil Defence and Emergency Management work with ORC, Councils and other organisations to keep everyone as safe as possible during a flooding situation.
ORC undertakes monitoring and analysis to forecast how lakes and rivers will respond to heavy rainfall, which enables other agencies like city and district councils, power companies, and (if necessary) civil defence to plan their responses. We have a 24/7 flood duty officer, and a wider flood management team for these situations.
ORC also ensures that pump stations and flood protection schemes are unobstructed and working as intended. ORC’s Lower Clutha flood scheme protects 9,300 hectares of land from inundation in high river flows.
