Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued: Christchurch and Canterbury Brace for Large Hail and Flash Flooding
By Lions Roar Aotearoa News
CHRISTCHURCH, CANTERBURY (Friday, January 23, 2026) — MetService has issued an urgent Severe Thunderstorm Watch for the Canterbury region, warning residents of Christchurch and the surrounding plains to prepare for localized downpours and large hail.
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to ignite across the inland and northern parts of the province this afternoon, with a significant risk of the volatile weather spreading into Christchurch city as the day progresses.
🌩️ Timing and Impact Areas
The watch is currently in effect for the following areas:
- Duration: From 1:30 PM until 9:00 PM today.
- Regions Covered: Christchurch City, the Canterbury Plains, and the Canterbury High Country.
- Risk Level: MetService has classified the risk of these storms becoming “severe” as moderate.
⚠️ Key Hazards: Rain and Hail
Meteorologists are warning that the most intense storm cells could bring hazardous conditions:
- Heavy Rain: Localized downpours of 25 to 40 millimetres per hour are possible. Such intensity often leads to surface or flash flooding, particularly near streams, narrow valleys, and low-lying urban areas.
- Large Hail: Hail stones exceeding 2cm in diameter could fall. This poses a major threat to:
- Agriculture: Crops, orchards, and vineyards are at high risk of damage.
- Property: Vehicles and glasshouses are vulnerable.
- Safety: Driving conditions will become extremely hazardous during hail bursts.
📊 Storm Watch Summary: Canterbury (Jan 23, 2026)
| Hazard | Potential Intensity | Possible Impacts |
| Rainfall | 25–40 mm/hr | Flash flooding and slips. |
| Hail | >20 mm (2cm) | Damage to cars, glass, and crops. |
| Timing | Early afternoon to 9 PM | Rapidly changing visibility for commuters. |
💡 How to Prepare
Authorities are encouraging residents to stay alert and monitor local radar updates.
- Secure Loose Items: Move outdoor furniture or trampolines that could be caught in high winds.
- Protect Vehicles: If possible, park cars under cover to avoid hail damage.
- Check Gutters: Ensure drains are clear to minimize surface flooding around your home.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the MetService website and follow advice from Civil Defence (Get Ready).
