Drier conditions across the Murray-Darling basin are providing hope that floodwaters may start to recede by next month.
The peak of flooding through Renmark and Berri is expected to reach peak levels on either Christmas Day or Boxing Day.
Flow forecasts remain at 190 to 220 gigalitres a day. This has been consistent modelling since early November. Emergency services predict the peak flow will reach Loxton by December 29 and Murray Bridge between January 3 and 13.
Emergency Services Minister Joe Szakacs says his thoughts are with all affected during this difficult holiday period.
“The coming days are going to be extremely difficult for Riverland communities and the emergency services personnel that are there to protect them as the river nears its peak,” Minister Szakacs said.
“I strongly urge people to follow the SA SES advice and to reach out if they need help.
“While the recovery effort will be a massive task, we are nearing the worst of it as far as river levels are concerned and I urge people to remain vigilant”.
So far, 1100 properties have been inundated and that number is set to reach 4000 at the peak. So far 3160 properties have had power disconnected.
State Emergency Service chief officer Chris Beattie says as we head into the Christmas and new year period, public safety remains a key priority for SASES.
“We’ll be very pre-emptive about warnings and messages to the community about when to evacuate,” Chris says.
“It’s important for people that live in flood-risk areas, particularly those that live in areas protected by levees, that they have their plan prepared and understand when they’ll have to leave, and if they are planning to relocate, to relocate early.”
Sadly, more than 250 businesses and 4000 hectares of agricultural land could also be impacted at the peak.
To view water levels at different locations along the river go here
If you would like more information on the River Murray flood event please call the River Murray hotline on 1800 362 361.
More News
