Otago will miss out on early warnings of thunderstorms and heavy downpours when MetService's new service goes live next July.
The new severe thunderstorm warning system would use data provided by radars placed around the country, including Rakaia and Invercargill in the South Island.
However, there is not one in Otago.
MetService national weather service general manager Rod Stainer said the radars only provided information within 150km of the unit.
The new system would provide up to 90 minutes notice of severe thunderstorms and detect pockets of heavy rain.
MetService would like to see radar installed in Otago, and would look at applying to Government for approval and funding.
The radars cost about $3 million each.
