Release date: 08/11/22

River Murray peak flow projections have again increased to at least 150 gigalitres a day based on new advice provided to the State Government.

The peak flow is still expected to arrive at the South Australian border in early December and flows expected to remain above 100GL/day throughout January and possibly beyond.

The State Government is urging river communities to plan and prepare for the possibility of a higher peak due to uncertainties in flow forecasting.

The Malinauskas government has committed $3 million to repair the levee system and prepare Riverland communities for the increasing flows.

There remains a moderate probability of 165 GL/day peak flows based on improved forecast accuracy or rainfall close to the SA border.

There remains a low probability of 180 GL/day peak flows, which communities should consider in their flood emergency preparedness.

The flood pulse is due to move past the Edward-Wakool system in New South Wales and rejoin the main river in mid November, providing upstream agencies with greater ability to accurately predict the likely flow at the SA border.

Water levels at the Wakool Junction gauge are rising earlier and faster than earlier modelling had indicated.

The Government also continues to closely monitor blackwater in South Australia, where low dissolved oxygen levels have been recorded, as temperatures increase.

Blackwater, which is caused by the degradation of large amounts of organic matter washing into the river from the floodplains in NSW and Victoria, is starting to affect the river upstream. Some isolated fish deaths have been reported.

Any fish kills observed in the wild should be reported to the FISHWATCH 24-hour hotline on 1800 065 522. Further information is available from the Biosecurity page of PIRSA’s website.

The SES is urging people to become familiar with best practise sandbag usage. Many South Australians have never had to sandbag their homes or business before, and we want to help people best protect their properties through the most effective use of sandbags. Information on how to most effectively use sandbags is here.

A dedicated River Murray hotline (1800 362 361) is available from 8.30am to 5pm if you have any questions about the River Murray high flows. New inundation maps and a FAQs are here.

Quotes

Attributable to Peter Malinauskas

These new flow predictions are a concern for river communities and people need to be prepared for increasing rises in river levels.

I urge people to keep informed through the SES website so they can prepare and give themselves the best possible chance to get through this difficult period.

Attributable to Susan Close

The risk of a blackwater event in South Australia has increased a result of higher daytime temperatures speeding up the biological processes that deplete oxygen in the water.

Fish and other aquatic animals may become stressed when oxygen levels drop below a certain level. Large-bodied native fish such as Murray Cod are particularly vulnerable.

People should report any fish kills they see to the FISHWATCH 24-hour hotline.

Attributable to Joe Szakacs

It’s important that river communities remain vigilant and continue to prepare, particularly those with low lying shacks.

Our emergency services are well prepared, and are continuing to work with communities in advance of anticipated high water flows.