The State Emergency Service (SES) is urging South Australians to take extra care as a combination of rain, strong winds and abnormally high tides impacts much of the state this week.
A strong cold front is moving across South Australia, bringing damaging wind gusts, widespread rainfall and coastal storm surge conditions, with authorities warning residents to remain vigilant both at home and on the roads.
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast damaging wind gusts of between 60 and 70km/h across parts of the West Coast, Eyre Peninsula and Yorke Peninsula, while many areas could receive between 20mm and 50mm of rain over the next two days.
While authorities are not anticipating widespread severe impacts, the SES says South Australians should prepare for hazardous conditions, including fallen branches, loose roof tiles, blocked gutters and localised flooding.
Adding to the concern are abnormally high tides affecting large sections of the state’s coastline. A separate Bureau of Meteorology warning is in place for coastal communities including Adelaide, Port Lincoln, Strathalbyn, Maitland, Whyalla, Mount Gambier, Ceduna and Port Augusta.
The unusually high sea levels are being driven by a combination of strong onshore winds and the naturally larger tidal ranges experienced during May and June. As a result, low-lying coastal areas could experience seawater inundation, while beaches and dunes may be vulnerable to erosion. Large waves are also expected to impact exposed sections of the coast.
“Given the combination of heavy rain, strong winds and high tides, we’re asking South Australians to be vigilant over the next few days, and take particular care around properties and on roads when away from home,” shared Robert Charlton, Chief of Staff for the SES.
“This is the first storm event of the winter season, and it’s a timely reminder to South Australians to ensure loose items around the home are secured, park your vehicles undercover and away from trees and stay away from fallen power lines. To minimise your risk when travelling, don’t ride, drive, or walk through flood water and please drive carefully on wet and slippery roads.”
The SES is also reminding motorists and pedestrians never to drive, ride or walk through floodwaters, and to take extra care on wet and slippery roads.
Residents are encouraged to clear gutters where safe to do so, secure outdoor furniture and loose items, and monitor official weather updates throughout the week.
Anyone requiring SES assistance can contact 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero immediately.
