The Barkly Highway has been closed at the Stuart Highway in the west and at Avon Downs in the east following severe flooding and heavy rain.
Motorists are advised the highway has been severely damaged in several places and it is expected to be closed for several days. Department of Planning and Infrastructure construction crews are on standby and the damage will be assessed this morning, however it is expected it will be several days before they can attempt any repairs.
Meanwhile, police organized a mercy flight of supplies yesterday to 48 people stranded on the flooded road. The group consisting of 30 adults, 12 children and six babies were stranded between Avon Downs and Soudan Station. A plane with supplies landed on an unaffected part of the highway near the stranded group yesterday afternoon. The group was evacuated to Avon Downs by road later in the day.
Superintendent Bruce Porter said police were concerned at the number of motorists who appear to be ignoring the road closure signs.
"We are aware that a number of motorists are ignoring the signs and we are particularly concerned they will only add to the problem if they become stranded with limited supplies.'" Supt Porter said.
"We are urging motorists to heed the warnings and wait until the flooding subsides and the road has been repaired before trying to continue their journey, especially as more rain is forecast for the next couple of days."
Motorists are advised to check road conditions before travelling by calling the Road Report number 1800 246 199 or checking the Department of Planning and Infrastructure Road Report website at www.ntlis.nt.gov.au/roadreport/ for up to date road conditions.

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