Following heavy overnight rain in the headwaters of the Waterhouse River, the town of Beswick/Wugalarr is currently closed due to localised flooding of the Waterhouse River.
Current River height is 8.3 metres at the bridge on the Central Arnhem Highway and the local reports are that it is rising slowly. The Central Arnhem Highway is closed to all traffic west of Beswick. There has only been occasional light rain in the area this morning.
Flooding is occurring in the low parts of the town and some evacuations began this morning. Police and SES are in the town as of 1100hours.
An evacuation centre has been established at the Wugularr School. Council are continuing to support the evacuation of effected residents and managing the evacuation centre.
The Aged Care facility and its seven residents have been evacuated to the School as of 0830 hours this morning. There are no reports of damage or personal injury.
Michael Berto, CEO of the Roper Gulf Regional Council, praised the work of Council staff and other volunteers in managing the evacuation and other preparations.
“The people of Wugularr are very resilient and used to flooding but our thoughts go to them as they deal with this difficult situation. Council staff will continue to manage the recovery process under the control of the Police and Emergency Services.
Council staff and other agencies have worked very effectively since last night to minimise the impact of the flooding. I thank them for their considerable efforts.”
Mr. Berto also requested that only essential travel be undertaken in the immediate area and that Council staff not to be contacted by phone except in urgent situations. This will allow staff to carry out their essential services.
An updated report will be issued at 1600 hours.
For further details please direct your enquiries to Michael Berto, CEO Roper Gulf Regional Council on 08 8972 9000.
ENDS