The Northern Territory government has declared a state of emergency as ex-Tropical Cyclone Lincoln unleashes torrential rain, threatening widespread and potentially catastrophic flooding across the region.
Chief Minister Eva Lawler announced the emergency declaration on Wednesday, emphasising the grave danger posed by the weather system. "This is a serious situation," Lawler stated. "We are facing potentially life-threatening conditions, and our priority is keeping Territorians safe."
Katherine Braces for Major Flood Peak
The town of Katherine faces particular peril, with authorities predicting the river could peak between 18 and 20 metres overnight Wednesday into Thursday. This level would approach the devastating 20.4-metre peak experienced during the 1998 floods that submerged much of the town.
Emergency Services Minister Brent Potter confirmed that approximately 160 residents from low-lying areas of Katherine have already been evacuated to safer ground. The situation remains fluid, with additional evacuations likely as the crisis develops.
Road Closures and Transportation Chaos
The severe weather has triggered massive disruptions to transportation networks throughout the territory. Several major highways have been completely cut off by floodwaters, including:
- Stuart Highway south of Darwin
- Arnhem Highway
- Daly River Road
- Kakadu Highway
- Victoria Highway
These closures have effectively isolated many communities, complicating evacuation efforts and emergency response operations.
Meteorological Warnings and Forecast
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings for multiple regions, including Darwin, the Daly coast, and the northwestern parts of the Arnhem district. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 90-150mm are predicted, with some areas potentially receiving up to 200mm.
Meteorologist Shenagh Gamble explained the system's trajectory: "Ex-Tropical Cyclone Lincoln is currently situated southwest of Tennant Creek and is expected to continue moving slowly southwestward, gradually weakening throughout Wednesday."
Emergency Response and Preparations
Emergency services are operating at maximum capacity, with teams deployed across the most vulnerable regions. Sandbagging operations are underway in multiple communities, and evacuation centres have been established to accommodate displaced residents.
The Northern Territory government has established an emergency hotline and is providing regular updates through multiple channels, urging residents to follow evacuation orders and avoid floodwaters.
As the territory braces for what could be its most significant flooding event in decades, authorities remain on high alert, coordinating response efforts across affected regions.
