Average inflow rates into the Clutha River are at their lowest point since records began more than 85 years ago, forcing hydroenergy to be imported from the North Island. A Contact Energy spokesman said inflow into the Clutha over the past 10 years were on track with previous long-term trends, until unusually dry conditions in March, April and May. The Transpower risk meter has been set to "watch" and power is currently being imported via Cook Strait, but Contact Energy said that it was "not uncommon" for energy to be imported from the north when conditions were dry. "Typically the flow is from south to north but it’s not uncommon and would be expected to occur when South Island catchments become dry and thermal plants in the North Island run harder to meet demand in both islands." The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research has forecast equal chances of average or below average rainfall for the district over the coming winter months.

Source: Otago Daily Times June 24, 2017 18:11 UTC