Updated 1:30pm - Friday 4 February

Environment Canterbury (ECan) says while there's little risk of out-of-river flooding, high flows on the Rangitata River will continue through Friday and Saturday and may lead to changes in river flow patterns and the possibility of river margin erosion. Nearby landowners should regularly check their own frontage for any change in river flow patterns. Anyone using the riverbed should monitor their own situation and be wary of changing flows and river flow patterns.

Elsewhere, Ashburton District Council staff have been closely monitoring conditions after the MetService issued an orange heavy rain warning for the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers.

MetService is forecasting a further 100 to 170mm to accumulate about the divide, and 50 to 80mm within 15km east of the divide. Peak rates of 20 to 30mm/h expected about the divide this morning.

In addition, a yellow heavy rain watch is in place for the Canterbury foothills, where rainfall accumulation could reach warning criteria. The affected area covers several villages in the Ashburton District, including Mount Somers and Methven.

Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.

The MetService website forecasts rain for the District continuing through until Sunday. Civil Defence are taking a precautious approach and asking residents to be stay up to date with MetService warnings.

Keep up to date with the latest weather warnings on the MetService website.

Check the latest river flood warnings on the ECan website.