The Southland District Council (SDC) is tonight advising that some stormwater drains may be contaminated with sewage.

They advise residents to stay away from ponding and surface flooding in townships throughout the district.

The warning also includes animals.

Ponding is currently on roads and streets in Winton, Lumsden and Nightcaps, but SDC advise this problem may now be widespread.

If anyone sees water blowing out of manholes, SDC ask you to call 0800 732 732.

Meanwhile Environment Southland has activated flood warnings on the following rivers:

• Aparima River at Dunrobin
• Hamilton Burn at Waterloo Road
• Waiau River at Sunnyside and Clifden
• Mataura River at Fairlight Station
• Mokoreta River at McKays Road 
• Otapiri Stream at Otapiri Gorge
• Lill Burn at Lill Burn-Monowai Road