A local state of emergency was declared for the whole Otago region at 7pm on 19 May 2026
Issued on 19/05/2026 at 7:00 PM
If you, your family and/or your property are at risk, contact emergency services immediately on 111.
What you should do:
Prepare for potential power outages - charge devices and have an alternate source of heating available making sure you have good ventilation, bring pets indoors
Move livestock off the high country and any south facing areas to sheltered areas so they are not exposed to the elements and can seek shelter
Many roads may be impacted and all non-essential travel should be avoided. If you must travel, keep emergency supplies in your vehicle including warm clothes, sleeping bags and blankets.
Check State Highway traffic and travel updates from NZTA Otago Updates and your District Council website for local roading information
Stay up to date with the latest weather information Metservice Lower South and pay attention to watches, warnings and road snowfall warnings. Download the MetService mobile app
Follow the instructions and advice of emergency services and Civil Defence authorities.
A boil water notice has been issued to @xxx@
This is because @xxx@
Boil the water in an electric jug until the jug turns off automatically.
Or bring the water to a rolling boil (where bubbles appear in the centre and do not disappear when the water is stirred) for one minute.
Store cooled boiled water in a clean container with a lid.
Boiled water is best used within 24 hours and can be boiled again to be sure it is safe. This is especially important for preparing infant formula.
