Tasmania Police and State Emergency Service personnel are continuing to monitor flood levels in the South and North Esk catchments.

As a result of recent significant rainfalls the South Esk is of particular concern. Tasmania Police and SES continue to make preparations in the case that forecasted flood levels exceed current predictions.

At this stage evacuation for residents in the Longford area is unlikely. However, flood preparations remain in place should predictions change.

“The good news for residents of Longford is that the South Esk flows have slowed between Perth and Longford. This may mean that the South Esk River has some opportunity to flatten itself out on the way down to the catchment towards Launceston,” said Regional Manager North SES Mhairi Revie.

“As a result of the decreased discharge rates, previous peak times have been revised. The river at Longford had been expected to peak at between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. – that peak is now expected between 9 p.m. and midnight tonight.

“The predicted level at Longford has not changed and it’s anticipated to remain between 6.5 and 7 metres at its peak,” she said.

One gate at Longford (the Union Street gate) has been partially erected as a precaution. Tannery Road remains open.

The peak time for Launceston has also been revised. While earlier predictions had indicated the peak would occur around midnight, that timing is now expected between 4 and 5 a.m. tomorrow.

“Despite the change in predicted peak timings, expected flood levels are anticipated to remain the same at this stage. Tasmania Police, the State Emergency Service and Local Government have robust plans in place for this situation,” Ms Revie said.

“There are currently no plans to evacuate areas in Launceston. However, residents need to remain alert to the situation but not be alarmed.”

A public inquiry hotline has been established for members of the community who are seeking further information in relation to the flood threat. The number is 1800 049 508. 

“We also urge people who have mobility issues or special needs and who are in these flood-prone areas to register with the hotline,” Ms Revie said.

As a precaution the following flood gates were closed in the Launceston area this afternoon:

• Cypress Street at the Railway Yard at Hobblers Bridge
• The Black Bridge Flood Gate
• The flood gate behind the Museum
• Seaport flood gate
• Glebe Farm flood gate along with the Forster, Gleadow and Lindsay Street flood gates.

This afternoon police doorknocked businesses in Invermay, advising them to take precautions in the event that peak flood waters inundate their premises after hours.

Some residents in low-lying areas of Hart Street in Newstead were also contacted to advise of the possibility of flooding from the North Esk.

While evacuations are not envisaged at this stage, should the situation change residents will be contacted by Tasmania Police and Emergency Services personnel.

“In the event that anticipated levels rise well above what has been predicted and an evacuation is required, the flood siren will be activated to notify residents of the need to take immediate action,” Ms Revie said.