Mid Canterbury residents are being encouraged to sign up to a flood warning text-alert service to get early notice when rivers start to rise, and there is a risk of flooding.
Early warning can make a lift-changing difference, Environment Canterbury (Ecan) councillor Ian Mackenzie says.
Mackenzie, Ecan’s lead councillor for the Community Preparedness and Response to Hazards Core Service, said in a statement that the system – currently available on 12 river floodplains Canterbury wide – provided a crucial extra layer of early warning for people living or working near rivers.
“These text alerts give people precious time to prepare – time to move stock, shift equipment, protect property, and keep their families safe,” Mackenzie said.
The free opt-in service sends automated text messages when river flows reach thresholds that may result in flooding. The alert includes a link to live river data and further information such as active flood warnings and advisories.
“This is about getting ahead of the risk. Even a short warning can reduce the impact on homes, livelihoods, and communities.
“We strongly encourage anyone in these river areas to sign up,” he said.
Sign up for free
Residents can sign up by texting the relevant river name to 3730. When the selected river reaches a critical flow threshold, subscribers receive an early warning text. To opt out, text CANCEL to 3730. It includes alerts for the Rakaia, Ashburton Tinwald, Upper Ashburton, Lower Ashburton, Hinds and Rangitata rivers.
The alert is a one-way notification and provides alerts of rising or high river flows before flooding issues develop. It is not an evacuation order.
