Police and SES are continuing to monitor to water levels and flood levies in the South and North Esk Rivers.  The Tamar River at Launceston is expected to peak between 3 to 7am.  High tide has just passed and water levels are dropping.  The next high tide will be at 7am where water levels are expected to again peak.  Only the Invermay and Inveresk suburbs are at threat from flooding.

Police are not issuing an evacuation order at this point but urge people to be prepared to evacuate if required in the next 24 hours.  Cars should be packed with warm clothing, blankets and water, and preparations made for pets.

Those persons who wish to leave now can do so, and stay with family or friends.  Launceston Council are also in the process of setting up an evacuation centre at the Launceston University gymnasium.  Police ask that if anyone in Invermay or Inveresk chooses to leave their home or needs assistance that that they notify police on 1800 049 508.

The Launceston Basin and Gorge area has been closed and the public should stay away from those areas as well as Kings Wharf in Inveresk.

In the next few hours, police will start door knocking homes in Invermay and Inveresk to provide further advice.  Members of the public should listen to ABC radio at 91.7FM and other local radio stations for further updates or check the police website at www.police.tas.gov.au.

If you wish to report flooding contact the State Emergency Services on phone:  132 500. Any other enquires should be directed to police on 1800 049 508.

Tasmania Police Media
(03) 6230 2296