Tables and chairs have been partially submerged along the Loxton river front as high flows continue to impact local infrastructure. PHOTO: Alexandra Bull
PROTECTING the Riverland from flood waters flowing down the River Murray is the aim of a six-week state government campaign launched today.
The Department of Environment and Water is predicting flows of 120GL per day by early December, the highest flows since the 1970s.
Various state agencies, including State Emergency Services (SES), SA Police and the Department of Environment and Water (DEW), are working closely with local government to ensure that the community, businesses and visitors are well prepared for the higher water levels.
Towns, particularly Renmark, are at particular risk of flooding if River Murray levels rise beyond the forecasts.
“We’ve seen the devastating human and economic impact of floods in the eastern states,” said Premier Peter Malinauskas.
“The government is acting now to ensure river communities are as well prepared as possible should challenges arise.”
Following concerns about levees managed by councils and private landholders – raised by DEW – the government will send a team of engineers and flood planners to the Riverland this week to undertake geological surveys of levees.
This team will work with councils and private landholders to ensure their levees can offer a level of protection to the community.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Climate, Environment and Water Susan Close said the time to respond to increased flows was “limited” and that she hoped to see “everyone working together to minimise the risk of inundation”.
“I also urge local councils and landholders to ensure their levees are maintained and prepared for the impending increases in River Murray flows expected in the coming weeks and months,” she said.
Emergency Services Minister Joe Szakacs said ensuring locals were effectively prepared for an “unlikely” emergency event was of “paramount importance”.
“Over the next six weeks, I urge everyone to listen closely to any emergency messaging from trusted sources such as SASES, SAPOL, DEW and the Bureau of Meteorology,” he said.
“Our agencies are proactively responding to any risk, great or small, to manage the developing situation.”
