A sou'east rainstorm over Christchurch this morning has pushed up river levels and caused widespread surface street flooding.

The rainfall has been heaviest around the hills, with 67mm recorded at Hoon Hay/Bowenvale, 52mm at Halswell. Further north, at Spencerville, only 25mm has fallen.

The forecast is for it to clear during the day.

Council staff and contractors say the Heathcote River is high, about a metre above normal at Princess Margaret Hospital. The Avon is also well up.

There is the expected surface street flooding alongside the lower Heathcote, as low-lying stormwater systems back up, but low tide's at about 11am and no serious problems are expected. Contractors have been putting out "Flooding" signs on some streets.

Surface flooding on many streets is being caused by fallen leaves blocking sump covers. Using a rake to pull this to one side and allowing the water to get into the stormwater system is the simple solution for neighbouring residents.

ENDS

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