Minor flooding of Gascoyne River expected

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services is urging people along the Gascoyne River to prepare for minor flooding over the next two days following recent heavy rainfall in the river catchment.

Minor flooding has already happened along the Gascoyne River to Jimba, where the level is currently at 4.36m and steady, with a minor peak expected tonight.

The level at Fishy Pool is currently at 3.16m and rising, and is expected to peak between 4.2m and the minor flood level of 4.5m overnight.

The level at Nine Mile Bridge is currently at 1.84m and steady and expected to peak between 4.1 and 4.4m on Tuesday night, but is not expected to reach the minor flood level of 5.5m.

No roads have been closed but drivers are asked to be careful at crossings where floodways and river levels could quickly rise.

DFES has recommended people take the following precautions:

• Watch for changes in water levels so you are ready if you need to evacuate.
• Pack a relocation kit together with your emergency kit.
• Relocate equipment and livestock so they do not get caught in floodwaters.
• Prepare pet food or stockfeed in case you cannot return home for a few days.
• Never walk, swim or play in floodwaters.
• Do not go near storm drains and pipes, ditches and ravines.
• Stay out of rivers; this includes no swimming or kayaking.
• Do not park or camp adjacent to rivers.

IF DRIVING:

• Obey road closure signs and do not drive into water of unknown depth and current.
• Take care on gravel and unsealed roads as they may be slippery and muddy, and you could get bogged.
• If your car stalls in rising water, abandon it immediately and seek shelter above floodwater.

For updates, visit emergency.wa.gov.au.