Media release

Moderate Flood Warning - Daly River - Update #11

Police

A moderate flood warning remains in place for the Daly River as the Bureau of Meteorology advises the water level is currently at 13.42 metres and falling slowly.

The Region 2 Emergency Committee reconvened today.  Commander David Proctor said Local Emergency Management Plans are in place and authorities continue to monitor the situation.

 “Authorities are continuing to keep residents across the region informed and monitor the situation due to the heavy rainfall. Each community is well prepared and familiar with local response plans.”

“Extra crocodile traps were set up around Daly River last week and a 3.3 metre male croc was caught overnight.

“The croc was shown to local school children to reinforce the ‘be crocwise’ safety message whilst there are flood waters in the vicinity of the community.

“This is a timely reminder to all Territorians to remain vigilant regarding crocodile awareness.

The crocodile will be relocated to a Darwin Crocodile Farm for breeding purposes.

“The McArthur River at Borroloola exceeded the Minor Flood Level (9.0 metres) overnight and is currently 9.25 metres and steady.

“Essential services are functioning in the community and authorities continue to monitor the situation. The community is well prepared with local response plans in place.

“NT Police urge drivers to carefully consider their options before trying to cross any flooded roadways. Trying to predict the water depth or not being able to see if the road is still intact could have fatal consequences.

“Motorists are advised to check the Road Report prior to travelling as conditions change, go to www.roadreport.nt.gov.au or via telephone 1800 246 199.

“With the rising water levels it is important that the public realise the risks associated with rivers and creeks. Flood waters pose a real threat of drowning; people should not swim in pipes or drains. There is also a chance that flood waters may be contaminated by sewerage outflow or hidden debris,” Commander Proctor said.

Further flood information:

Pigeon Hole community experienced heavy rainfall overnight.  Currently there is no risk of inundation of the community; however some minor flooding may be experienced in the area.

Palumpa water levels are receding. The community is well prepared with local response plans in place.

“An initial Flood Warning has been cancelled for the Victoria River at Kalkarindji and Dagaragu.  The river at Kalkarindji dropped below Minor Flood Level (9.0 metres) today; authorities are well prepared and will continue to closely monitor the situation.

Road updates:

The Victoria Highway between Timber Creek and the WA border has reopened to light vehicles only.

The Daly River Road is impassable at 5 Mile.

Wooliana Road is impassable at the Banyan Creek causeway.

The Buntine Highway is impassable in various sections due to flooding.

The Arnhem Highway at the Adelaide River floodplain has reopened to light vehicles only.

Motorists are advised to exercise caution and drive to conditions.

For the latest information on road conditions check Road Report at: www.roadreport.nt.gov.au or via telephone 1800 246 199.

For up to date River height and rainfall information go to: http://www.bom.gov.au/nt/flood

Further information about how to prepare can be found at: www.securent.nt.gov.au or by speaking to the local police.

For the latest Bureau of Meteorology Advice go to: www.bom.gov.au

For more information on crocodile safety go to: www.nt.gov.au/becrocwise