Media release

Moderate Flood Warning - Daly River - Update #9

Police

A moderate flood warning remains in place for the Daly River.

The Bureau of Meteorology advises the water level has continued to recede and is currently sitting at 13.65 metres and is expected to continue to fall 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.

“A Minor Flood Warning remains in place for the McArthur River at Borroloola.  The McArthur River bridge has reopened with the river sitting below the Minor Flood Level (9.0 metres) and expected to fall throughout the day however, there is more rain forecast for that area.

“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.

“It is important that the public remain vigilant regarding crocodile awareness.  Additional crocodile traps have been set in strategic locations due to the flooding and excess water about. Please be crocwise. www.nt.gov.au/becrocwise

“Authorities are continuing to keep residents across the region informed and monitor the situation. Each community is well prepared and familiar with local response plans,” concluded Commander Proctor

Further flood information:

Garawa 1, Garawa 2 and Police Lagoon outstation near Borroloola have regained access to Borroloola due to receding water levels. 

Palumpa water levels are receding. Essential services are still functioning in the community and authorities continue to monitor the situation. The community is well prepared with local response plans in place.

Dagaragu water levels are receding. Essential services are still functioning in the community and authorities continue to monitor the situation.

Gilwi Outstation residents have voluntarily relocated themselves to family at Timber Creek until road access is possible.

Road updates:

McArthur River Bridge has reopened.

Victoria Highway is closed between Timber Creek and the WA border.

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 has been closed at Adelaide River floodplain due to water over the road.

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