Video: Residents prepare for Daly River flood levels to hit 13.9m

FLOODWATER levels at Daly River are expected to continue to rise slowly and peak near 13.9m this week, similar levels seen in town during the 2014 floods. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

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FLOODWATER levels at Daly River are expected to continue to rise slowly and peak near 13.9m this week, similar levels seen in town during the 2014 floods.

The Bureau of Meteorology said Daly River water levels at the police station were still rising slowly on Sunday, hitting 13.50m at 8.15am.

They expect the river level is likely to peak near 13.90m on Tuesday morning.

Incident Controller Commander Janelle Tonkin previously said police would consider issuing an evacuation order if the flood levels hit 14m.

Aerial view of floodwaters encompassing the Daly River community on February 27. Picture: Pjay Ahfat

NT Police also recently closed the Daly River Road into Daly River Community (Nauiyu) as a safety precaution.

“We have identified a number of risks while we are in a this moderate flood event,” said Superintendent Kirk Pennuto.

“Among these is that residents may attempt to leave the community, then drive and boat back, navigating uncharted floodwaters.

Moderate flooding is occurring along the lower Daly River. Picture: Pjay Ahfat

“This not only puts their own lives at risk, but also those of the people who would be required to undertake a search and rescue operation.”

Two emergency services members are contactable for residents who require emergency access through the gate.

“We ask the public to cancel any fishing trips or plans for sightseeing in the area. The boat ramp remains closed, and with the road closure now in place there is no public access to the community.

“We thank everyone for their co-operation.”

The Daly River police station hit 13.50 metres at 7.30am on Sunday and is rising slowly, with moderate flooding. Picture: Pjay Ahfat

NT Police have provided three additional staff, and NT Emergency Services sent three additional boats in case they are required to help move people in low-lying areas.

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In February 2014, Daly River reached 13.7m and the community wasn’t evacuated but some homes had minor flooding.

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