This comes hard on the heels of heavy rain last weekend which pushed up river levels throughout the region.

MetService today issued bulletins forecasting the possibility of a burst of heavy rain in East and North Otago tomorrow, and snow developing early tomorrow and becoming heavy at high altitudes in the northern ranges of Otago and the South Canterbury high country.

Snow accumulations of 20 to 30cm of snow are forecast above 1200 metres during Saturday morning and early afternoon, with lesser amounts down to 600 metres.

ORC director engineering, hazards and science Gavin Palmer said while it was too early to predict whether river levels might rise tomorrow, the council would be monitoring them closely for the next 48 hours at least.

MetService advised people to keep up to date with all the latest forecasts, including for thunderstorms, as this is a developing situation, with severe weather possible in many parts of the country.

More information about river levels is available at www.water.orc.govt.nz and weather information at www.metservice.com

For further information contact

Dr Gavin Palmer
Director engineering, hazards, and science
ORC
Ph 03 474 0827 or 0274 943 900