BREAKING: Up to 4000 Riverland properties expected to go under

UP to 4000 Riverland properties are expected to be inundated when the River Murray reaches its Riverland peak – now predicted to be between December 24-31 in Renmark.

Today’s SA government flow update said the peak in Berri was expected to be between December 25 and January 5, and in Waikerie between January 1-12.

The update also forecast the flows into SA would remain between 190 and 200 gigalitres per day, impacting thousands of Riverland properties.

“More than 1100 properties throughout the Riverland have so far been inundated, with this figure expected to rise to 4000 when the river is expected to peak in late December,” the update said.

“The SES estimates 255 businesses, and 4000 hectares of agricultural production will be impacted by the end of December.”

The update said while flow rates are useful for forecasting the scale of floods, water heights provide a better picture of conditions on the ground.

“Subsequently, as we are now closer to the expected peak, the Department for Environment and Water (DEW) is now able to provide daily height forecasts for population centres,” it said.

“As the peak moves closer to the South Australian border, DEW is now in a better position to forecast when peak water levels are expected to arrive at different locations along the river and this information will be made available (at www.sa.gov.au).”

SA Emergency Services Minister Joe Szakacs said as the peak draws nearer and more properties are inundated, following the SASES advice was crucial.

“As authorities are now able to project more definitely peaks in towns across the system, I remind communities to heed the advice of the SA SES and continue to seek advice from trusted sources,” he said.

“Preparation is key for all involved. Have a plan and be ready to leave.”