Northern South Australian communities are being urged to prepare now, with the State Emergency Service issuing a Community Readiness Alert ahead of forecast heavy rain, thunderstorms and potential flash flooding across the region this weekend.
The alert applies to parts of the state’s north, where the Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall expected to impact the North East Pastoral and sections of the Flinders and North West Pastoral districts.
Forecast modelling indicates the system could deliver up to 100mm of rain and thunderstorms across several outback communities, including Coober Pedy, Oodnadatta, Maree, Leigh Creek, Dalhousie Springs, Arkaroola and Moomba. Localised thunderstorms may bring even higher rainfall totals in some areas.
Authorities warn that flash flooding is possible and may make roads impassable, with some communities at risk of temporary isolation if conditions intensify.
The State Emergency Service is encouraging residents and travellers across northern South Australia to take action now to ensure households, properties and vehicles are prepared before the weather arrives. This includes reviewing emergency plans, preparing supplies and monitoring official weather and emergency updates over the coming days.
The severe weather warning comes as a separate State heatwave summary has also been issued for parts of regional South Australia. Low-intensity heatwave conditions are forecast for the Flinders and Mid North across Saturday and Sunday, while the North West Pastoral district is expected to experience similar conditions on Saturday. The Riverland is also forecast to see a low-intensity heatwave across the weekend.
Residents across affected areas are advised to stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather and remain alert to changing conditions.
What you should do:
- Make sure you have enough food, water, medications and pet food for a week so you will not need to go out in a storm.
- Be prepared for the possibility of power outages. Keep your mobile phone charged and make sure you have a torch and a battery-powered radio for emergency information.
- Consider the safety of your pets and animals and make sure they will have protection and water.
- If it is safe for you to do so, you should ensure drains and gutters are clear.
- Ensure any garden furniture, play equipment or other loose items around your home are put away or securely fastened down.
- Check weather forecasts regularly and listen to local radio for updates.
- For SES assistance phone 132 500. If the matter is life-threatening call 000 (triple zero).
- Stay indoors, away from windows, while conditions are severe
- Take extra care if you are travelling through this area, and drive to the conditions
- Monitor road closure information via SA Police or the SA Department for Infrastructure and Transport websites or social media
- Camp or park your vehicles well away from creek beds
- Check on friends, family and neighbours before and after the rain event
This message was issued by the State Emergency Service.
Impacts in your area:
- You may be in danger from flying debris, falling trees, and downed power lines.
- Minor structural damage is possible.
- Be aware that floodwaters may rise rapidly and are likely to be fast moving.
- Never allow children to play in or near floodwater.
- You should never walk, ride or drive through floodwater.
Stay informed:
- Check the SES website at www.ses.sa.gov.au
- Monitor local conditions and tune in to your local ABC on a battery-powered radio for updates
- Call the SA Emergency infoline on 1800 362 361
- People who are deaf, or have a hearing or speech impairment, can contact the SA Emergency infoline via the National Relay Service on 1800 555 727 (TTY users 1800 555 677)
- Follow the SES on Twitter (@SA_SES) or Facebook (SA State Emergency Service)
- For weather warnings and forecasts visit www.bom.gov.au
