Alpine riverbed alert

Heavy rain has been falling today (Thursday) in the headwaters of the major Canterbury alpine rivers (Rangitata, Rakaia, Waimakariri, Hurunui, and Waiau-uha). The rain has currently eased, but another period of heavy rain is expected from tomorrow (Friday) afternoon through until Saturday morning. Flows have started to increase in the upper parts of these rivers, and are expected to increase in the lower parts throughout the day tomorrow.

River flows should begin to drop away before the second period of rain brings them back up again on Saturday.

Beware of increasing flows if you are working or recreating in these riverbeds. Out-of-river flooding from any of these rivers resulting from the current rainfall is unlikely. This message will be updated by midday tomorrow once a revised forecast for the next period of rainfall has been issued.