Alpine riverbed alert

Heavy rain is starting to fall again today (Friday) in the headwaters of the major Canterbury alpine rivers (Rangitata, Rakaia, Waimakariri, Hurunui, and Waiau-uha). The rain is expected to continue through until the early hours of tomorrow morning (Saturday) before clearing away.

Flows in the upper parts of these rivers have started to recede following rain yesterday, but are still rising in the lower parts. Flows will begin to increase again in the upper parts this afternoon as the further heavy rain sets in, and in the lower parts overnight and into tomorrow morning.

Beware of increasing flows if you are working or recreating in these riverbeds. Out-of-river flooding from any of these rivers is unlikely. This message will only be updated if the situation changes significantly.