The flood situation in the Daly River region is intensifying, and the Acting Chief Minister Willem Westra van Holthe has approved an evacuation order for the community of Daly River.
There are 434 people in the community who will be evacuated to Darwin, via Wooliana School and Batchelor. The evacuation has begun today. It is expected that the evacuation will be completed on Sunday 27 December.
Local Emergency Management Committees have met per the Territory Emergency Management Plan.
“Rain is continuing to fall in the Top End as a result of the slow moving tropical low; we are also keeping a close eye on catchments in the Katherine region and McArthur River. The cyclone watch remains active between Point Roper and the Queensland border,” said Region 2 Controller Commander Bruce Porter.
“A Minor Flood Warning has been issued for the Katherine River at Gorge Road.”
Director Northern Territory Emergency Services Andrew Warton reinforced the need to exercise extreme caution around any floodwaters, including crossings, drains and pipes.
The Bureau of Meteorology predicts that the flooding events could last four to five days.
Missing Person
“Last night we received a report of a man missing after being swept off a crossing near Peppimenarti,” Commander Porter said.
“He was in a car that had attended to cross a floodway yesterday afternoon, the car was swept off the crossing with three people inside. Two of these people made it to safety and commenced a search for their 28-year-old companion. When they failed to find him they returned to their community and raised the alarm with authorities after 10:00pm. A search commenced at first light.
“NTES and Police are continuing a search and rescue for this man.
“Water levels do come up and down very quickly in this type of situation, anyone travelling in the Top End is asked to take extra care today on the roads.”
For assistance, call the Police Assistance Line 131 444 or 000 in an emergency. NTES Emergency Assistance line is 132 500.
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