A man and woman, believed to be under the influence of alcohol, had to be rescued after the ute they were driving got stranded in the rapidly surging waters of the Hutt River last night.
Police have berated the couple for exercising poor judgment in attempting to drive through the river despite the poor weather.
They said it became apparent, after the pair were rescued, that alcohol might have been a factor.
"Police are disappointed in the poor judgment shown by these individuals and the risk they posed to themselves and those coming to their rescue, by attempting to drive in the water in these conditions," a statement said.
The Fire Service, Civil Defence rescue teams, police (including a dive squad) and the ambulance service all came to the aid of the pair stranded on top of the vehicle.