The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) has closed the East West rail line following 24 hours of heavy rain and flooding.
The corridor between McLeay and Bookaloo has been significantly impacted, with track washaways of up to 100 metres in some locations.
ARTC crews are currently inspecting the network between Crystal Brook and Broken Hill as well as Port Augusta to Whyalla to determine the full extent of the damage.
The weather system is moving east and dissipating slowly. However, further heavy rain is forecast in the Junta area which may affect the Broken Hill line.
While the damage assessments are underway, a return to service timeframe has not yet been confirmed. Based on current conditions, restoration is expected to take longer than seven days.
Another further significant weather system is forecast to move across similar areas later this week, which may exacerbate existing damage and recovery efforts.
ARTC is maintaining communication with customers and is working alongside emergency services and state transport agencies as the situation develops.
In preparation for recovery works, ARTC has mobilised crews and pre-positioned materials and equipment along the corridor to support rebuilding of the track.
