Alpine riverbed alert

Last updated: 6.27pm Tue, 18 Nov 2025

Heavy rain has been falling today (Tuesday) in the headwaters of the major Canterbury alpine rivers (Rangitata, Rakaia, Waimakariri, Hurunui, and Waiau-uha). The rain is forecast to continue through the evening before easing overnight. Flows have begun to increase in the upper parts of these rivers and will increase in the lower parts overnight and into tomorrow.  

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. 

 

For more information view our river flow data or rainfall data.