A Red Warning remains in force for Canterbury as significant rain starts to fall across the region.

A Red Warning for Heavy Rain is for the region south of Amberley, and an Orange Warning for Heavy Rain is in force for the region from Amberley to Kaikoura.

This means that people need to be prepared and take action as appropriate as there could be some disruption to their day and potential risk to people, animals and property. The majority of warnings issued by MetService will be orange.

An orange warning is used when the forecast indicates incoming bad weather (expected heavy rain, strong wind or heavy snow)

Metservice says “dangerous river conditions and flooding are expected. Slips and floodwaters are likely to disrupt travel, making some roads impassable and possibly isolating communities.”

“People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts in case further areas are added, or any changes are made.”

Red Warning is reserved for only the most extreme weather events, where significant impact and disruption is expected.

Metservice said “it signifies that people need to act now as immediate action is required to protect people, animals and property from the impact of the weather.”

People should also be prepared to follow the advice of official authorities and emergency services.