The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a flood warning for parts of the Northern Territory.
The Bureau has forecast areas of rainfall with isolated heavy thunderstorms across central parts of the NT over the coming days.
Heavy rainfall and possible flooding is expected for the Upper Victoria River, Tanami Desert, Barkly, Central Desert, MacDonnell Ranges, Simpson Desert, Georgina River and Eyre Creek, East Kimberley Rivers and Sturt Creek District.
Rainfall of 30 to 50 mm with isolated totals exceeding 100 mm are expected on Thursday, and an additional 40 to 70 mm with isolated falls over 100 mm on Friday.
NT Police, Fire and Emergency Services in Central Australia are reminding motorists to take extra care on the roads given the rainfall predictions.
Southern Command Manager, Ian Carlton said "Flash flooding can render roads impassable for up to a week. In the past, emergency services have had to respond to several motorists who have required rescuing or had become bogged from flooded roads.
"Understandably it is Christmas time and families come together to celebrate, but motorists are reminded to be cautious when travelling in wet weather conditions. If you must go out, ensure you have a capable vehicle and carry food, water and emergency equipment, even if you're only planning a short trip.
"People are encouraged to maintain awareness of the changing conditions, by monitoring the SecureNT and Bureau of Meteorology websites and listening to your local emergency broadcaster.
"If it's flooded, forget it. It's just not worth the risk."
More information on the Flood Watch Service and maps of Flood Watch Areas are available at http://www.bom.gov.au/water/floods/floodWarningServices.shtml
Current river levels are available from the Bureau at http://www.bom.gov.au/river heights
What should you do?
The Northern Territory Emergency Service advises that people should:
- Prepare an emergency kit including canned food, water and medication to last at least four days
- Fill your vehicle's fuel tank.
- Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterways.
- Prepare for flooding and move away while safe to do so.
- Don't drive into flood waters.
- Watch for changes in water levels so you are ready if you need to evacuate
- Do not park or camp adjacent to rivers.
If Driving:
- Be careful at crossings and flood ways as river levels may rise rapidly.
- Obey road closure signs and do not drive into water of unknown depth and current.
- Take care on gravel and unsealed roads as they may be slippery and muddy, and you could get bogged.
- Carry extra food and water when travelling in case of long delays at crossings.
Road Closures:
Some roads may be closed due to rising flood waters at river crossings or causeways or may become impassable due to the rain.
The latest road conditions are available at http://www.roadreport.nt.gov.au/
Important Numbers:
For emergency help in floods, storms and cyclones call 132 500
In a life-threatening situation call 000
See http://www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings to view all of the Bureau's current warnings.
Emergency information is available at http://www.securent.nt.gov.au/
