Flood warning
Useful information
Environment Southland has a monitoring network of rain gauges and water level recorders, some of which also record water flow. We monitor river levels so there is readily available information for Southlanders on how changes in water levels could affect their property or their livestock. We use a telemetry system, which is the automatic measurement and transmission of data from our monitoring sites. Information is transmitted through VHF radio at some sites and cellphone at others. Important sites have both, as cellphone networks can be overloaded in flood events.
To view live data on water levels and rainfall in a map view, visit our Environmental Data portal.
Flood warning operations centre
The Flood Warning Operations Centre operates up to 24 hours per day depending on the severity and extent of a flood event. The Duty Flood Warning Officer can be contacted via Environment Southland's 24 Hours Emergency Service phone numbers: (03) 211 5244 or freephone 0800 76 88 45.
Catchment sites and flood peak travel times
Catchment specific information on historic flood levels and flood peak travel times.
Environmental data information - telephone numbers
An automated telephone message service is available for up to date information on river levels, rainfall and water quality a number of sites across Southland. Each site has its own phone number, however all the information can be accessed through the main number 03 211 5010.
Having trouble?
Contact technical support or our flood duty officer – 03 211 5244
Environment Southland after hours – 03 211 5225
How can I prepare for a flood?
Find out if your property floods from previous owners, neighbours or Environment Southland, or you can contact our Senior Policy Planner on 0800 76 88 45 for property specific information.
Take note of any flood alleviation work that has been done, as this will also affect the behaviour of rivers near you. This will help you plan for future events, especially knowing when to move stock. Alternatively, district plans from Southland or Gore District Councils or Invercargill City Council will contain maps that identify flood prone areas.
How do I find out if roads are closed?
During a flood, access to your property is more likely to be affected than your property itself.
State Highway road closures are reported on the NZ Transport Agency website: www.nzta.govt.nz For other road closures head to www. civildefencesouthland.govt.nz, or get in touch with the Invercargill City Council, Southland District Council.
