An Emergency Situation has been declared for Alice Springs and the Simpson Meteorological District and the Barkly area south of Tennant Creek, with emergency evacuation shelters in Alice Springs open from 5pm.
At a press conference shortly after 4 pm on Sunday 2 March, in Alice Springs, NT Police Southern Commander James Gray Spence announced NT Chief Minister, Lia Finnochiaro had declared an emergency for Alice Springs and a large part of the Barkly.
Speaking during sand bag filling operations at the SES Headquarters in Alice Springs, SC Spence said “I can inform you this afternoon, the Chief Minister of the NT, Lia Finocchiaro, acting on advice from the Territory Emergency Management Council declared an Emergency Situation exists in Barkly, below Tennant Creek, based on the Bureau of Meteorology forecast area, he said.
“An Emergency Situation has also been declared for Alice Springs as it sits in the BoM’ Simpson Forecast area.
“The Emergency Situation Declaration covers both these areas”
Earlier in the day, low lying causeways across the Todd River in Alice Springs were closed as the river rose rapidly following overnight rain in the upstream catchment area.
With further rain expected, SC Spence said major flooding is possible overnight in Alice Springs and residents in flood prone areas should prepare to move now.
“Move to higher ground now if you are in a flood prone location, he said.
“If you can, go to family or friends who are outside the flood zone.
“If you need emergency accommodation, travel to Centralian Middle School (on Milner Road) or Centralian Senior College (on Grivillea Drive)
Shelters will be open at 5pm today, Sunday 2 March.
Shelters are not catered and no alcohol or pets are allowed.
Anyone going to the shelters or staying at home should ensure they have enough food for a minimum of three days.
