The State Emergency Service (SES) has released advice for anyone planning to head out on the Murray River in the coming week as water is expected to flow faster and there is a higher chance of debris causing hazards.
Forecast flows into South Australia are expected to rise to about 55GL/day in the coming week in the first week of September, before levels decline.
Over the past four weeks, levels have risen from 42GL/day at the border to around 52GL/day currently.
Chris Beattie, Chief Officer of the SES reminded people to take safety precautions when recreating in or around the River Murray and to never drive through floodwaters.
“We want to reassure the public that current and forecast flows are not expected to adversely impact properties or River Murray communities,” Chris Beattie said.
“However, it is important people take care when swimming or boating on the river with faster water and increased debris causing potential hazards.”
The current situation is different from last year when the State received large amounts of water from New South Wales and Victoria.
“That is not the case at the moment, as there is no water ‘behind’ the flows currently coming into South Australia,” Beattie said.
If the flow rate at the border is forecast to reach 60GL/day the SES will issue a Flood Advice for the River Murray Shack Areas.
Department of Premier and Cabinet Communities Recovery Coordinator Alex Zimmermann said now was a great time for people to visit the River Murray.
“The river right now is as spectacular as ever,’’ Alex Zimmermann said.
“All houseboats are operating and local communities are open for business.”
For further information and updates on flow, visit: https://confirmsubscription.com/h/r/8D42C972B80E0D172540EF23F30FEDED or for incidents and warnings, visit: www.ses.sa.gov.au
