Several of the towns in South Otago were also hard hit by the severe weather event.

Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan says flood waters were knee-deep in Lawrence's main street, with water getting into several businesses.

Mayor Cadogan is praising efforts of volunteers and emergency services, saying that everyone did a magnificent job.

The Kaitangata mouth of the Clutha River is being monitored after a river channel was cleared on Saturday to help the water flow out.

Several South Otago roads are still closed.