For certain parts of the Northern Territory, FLOODING is a very real possibility, and if you live in one of those areas you need to know how to be prepared and what to do in the event of flooding.

For the Northern Territory, Katherine and Alice Springs are the two largest populated areas that are often affected, and then there are the smaller, less populated surrounding and remote communities that are often cut off and affected by flooding.

The following information is focused on Katherine and Alice Springs, for information on other flood affected parts of the Northern Territory contact your local Emergency Service or go to the Bureau of Meteorology's Flood Page by clicking on the link below:

BOM Northern Territory Flood Warning Centre

KNOW YOUR LOCAL FLOOD HISTORY AND PLAN

• Flooding in Alice Springs guide (PDF)
• Flooding in Katherine guide (PDF)
• Katherine Flood warning maps
• Household Emergency Plan (PDF)

EMERGENCY KIT

Regardless of the emergency, every resident of the Northern Territory should have an emergency kit or access to one. Flooding is no exception! Click HERE to find out what you should have in your HOUSEHOLD Emergency Kit.

ACT ON FLOOD WARNINGS

• Listen to your local radio/TV for further information.
• Check that your neighbours know of the warning.
• Stack furniture and possessions above likely flood level, on beds and in roof (electrical items on top).
• Move garbage, chemicals and poisons to a high place.
• Secure objects that could float and cause damage.
• Protect/relocate valuable stock and equipment.
• If on the land, move livestock to high ground.
• Check your car and fill it with fuel.
• Check emergency kit and fresh water stocks

IF YOU NEED TO EVACUATE

• Empty freezers and refrigerators leaving doors open (to avoid floating and subsequent damage).
• Collect and secure your personal valuables, papers, money, photo albums and family mementos.
• Turn off power, gas, water, and take you emergency kit.
• Whether you leave or stay, place a sandbag in the toilet bowl to prevent back-flow of sewage into your home.

DURING AND AFTER THE FLOOD

If you remain in your home, or when you return, take these precautions:

• Keep your emergency kit safe and dry.
• Do not eat food which has been in contact with flood water and even boil all tap water until supplies
• have been declared safe.
• Don't use gas or electrical appliances that have been flood-affected, until they have been safety-checked.
• Beware of snakes and spiders, which may move to drier areas in your house.
• Avoid wading, even in shallow water, as it may be contaminated - if you must enter shallow floodwater, wear solid shoes and check depth with a stick.
• Check with police for safe routes before driving anywhere and don't enter water without checking depth and current.
• Keep listening to your local radio and TV station and heed all warnings and advice.

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