Darwin River Dam reached capacity and overflowed for the first time since March

Roads could be inaccessible while a Top End dam overflows after the recent deluge. Find out how else the stirred water could impact Territorians.

A Top End dam has flooded for the first time since March following Darwin’s monsoonal weather.

Power and Water acting executive general manger water services Eric Boyle said it was exciting to see the dam at capacity.

“The dam is designed to flow over its spillway when it reaches capacity, guiding water flow downstream in a controlled way and preventing any structural damage,” he said.

It comes after the dam’s water levels reached 45.77m on Tuesday and 45.84m on Wednesday.

Power and Water said downstream river levels could rise quickly if the dam overflowed.

“We remind everyone to always stay away from flooded rivers, drains and waterways for your own safety,” Mr Boyle said.

The Darwin River Dam last reached capacity in March 2022. Picture: Supplied

The monsoonal weather that flooded the Darwin River Dam may have offered a reprieve from the heat, but Territorians might now be noticing discoloured water coming from their taps.

The wild weather stirred up the dam, which provides about 85 per cent of the Darwin region’s drinking water.

Power and Water said the water was still safe to drink and was being treated to meet Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

“The change in colour is only aesthetic and is expected to clear up when the weather conditions settle,” a Power and Water spokeswoman said.

“It may be more noticeable in white baths and sinks and may have an impact on laundry, which can be treated with stain removers.”

The Darwin River Dam reached 98 per cent capacity on Tuesday afternoon and an overflow warning was issued. Picture: Supplied

The overflow comes after forecasters said ex-Tropical Cyclone Ellie could cross back into the NT.

Bureau of Meteorology meteorologist Sally Cutter said the “vigorous” monsoon flow impacting Darwin was gradually easing but wet weather was still expected for some time.

“We’re starting to see the monsoon ease with winds gradually backing off,” she said.

“There’s no longer damaging wind gusts but we’ll still likely see heavy monsoonal showers.”

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Originally published as Darwin River Dam reached capacity and overflowed for the first time since March