Media release

Moderate Flood Update - Daly River - Update 5

Police

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

The Bureau of Meteorology advises the water level is currently at 13.6 metres and is expected to peak at 13.7 metres during Saturday.

Regional Controller of the Regional 2 Emergency Management Committee, Commander David Proctor said Local Emergency Management Plans have been activated and authorities are well prepared.

 “At this stage, there is nothing to suggest that the Daly River will reach trigger levels for evacuation, and there is currently no intention to evacuate.

“Residents living in low lying areas have relocated themselves to friends and family.

“Local schools are open and operating with minimal students due to access issues. Essential services are still functioning in the community and are being monitored closely.

“NT Emergency Service personnel and volunteers are on standby to attend the region if required.

“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

 “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.

 “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:

Pigeon Hole community has experienced some minor flooding in low lying areas due to heavy rainfall overnight.  The community is well prepared with local response plans in place.

 

Road updates:

Daly River Road is closed and impassable in various sections due to flooding.

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

Woolianna Road at Banyan Farm is impassable due to flooding.

Lajamanu Road is impassable at Fox Creek.

The Victoria Highway is closed from WA border through to Victoria River due to flooding and debris over the road.

The Arnhem highway at Adelaide River floodplain remains closed 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