Commander David Proctor, Region 2 Controller advises that with the immediate threat of the cyclone now passed, authorities are focussing on ensuring the safe restoration of essential services and maintaining the health and safety of residents.

“Power and Water crews were deployed yesterday afternoon and began priority restoration of affected services and early this morning survey teams travelled to affected communities and began assessing the damage.

“This morning’s deployment includes 58 people from emergency services, Red Cross and Northern Territory Government departments including animal welfare, infrastructure, housing, business and health.

“Tropical Cyclone Lam caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure at Galiwinku. There has also been also some damage to infrastructure at Milingimbi and Ramingining.

“Recovery Planning is already underway and the transition to recovery will be enacted once the incident has stabilised and moves out of response.

“Community shelters will remain open for people whose houses may have suffered damage.

“The gales downed a lot of trees across the region and caused some localised flooding of roads.

“A reminder to residents, do not attempt to cross flooded waterways unless you are sure of the depth and speed of the water.

“Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterways and stop children playing in or near floodwaters.

“Stay away from fallen power lines, they are dangerous and should always be treated as live.

“Drinking water from taps should be boiled first and allowed to cool. Keep doing this until advised that tap water is safe to drink.

For further safety information and advice go to www.secureNT.nt.gov.au

Schools

Schools at Nhulunbuy, Yirrkala and Maningrida will reopen Monday. A decision around opening other Arnhem schools will be made in the coming days.

Roads

Fallen branches and other debris are scattered across roads in many areas.

Motorists are advised to exercise caution if driving and to drive to the conditions.

Do not attempt to cross flooded waterways unless you are sure of the depth and speed of the water.

If traveling by road, check the Road Report before doing so at www.roadreport.nt.gov.au

Warruwi resident’s repatriation

Residents of the Goulbourn Island community of Warruwi, including surrounding outstations and some contractors, were evacuated to Darwin for their own safety on Thursday.

A large amount of planning has been put in place to ensure the safe return of these residents to the community by air in the coming days.

The timing of this return will be dependent on continuing good weather and assessment of essential services in the community.