Tasmania’s north region has experienced significant rainfalls over the past months. Water tables and river catchments are at capacity.

The State Emergency Service advises that there are flood warnings for the North Esk, South Esk, Meander and Macquarie Rivers. The South Esk is in major flood. Flood levels are expected to peak at Longford at approximately 5.00pm this evening. The expected level is 7 meters AHD. SES and the Northern Midlands Council advises that residents of the Longford area do not need to be alarmed and that Longford is operating as per usual. One gate (the Union Street gate) has been partially erected at Longford for precautionary purposes only. Longford remains open to the public with the main Tannery Road still open.

The South Esk is expected to peak at the Trevallyn spillway at approximately midnight tonight. The peak is expected to incur significant flows (approximately a 1:20 ARI event).

The Northern Regional Emergency Management Committee has met early this morning to identify required preparedness and response activities. The Department of Police and Emergency Management are working collaboratively with local government to ensure that the north region is well prepared for the coming flood. The region also maintains a high state of preparedness in the event that the flood levels exceed predicted flows.

Members of the public can feel reassured that robust plans are in place and that whilst they are asked to be ALERT, there is not cause for ALARM. At this stage, there are no plans to evacuate Invermay. However, evacuation plans are being considered in the event that predicted levels are exceeded. Residents are advised to listen to their local ABC radio for regular updates.

For information regarding what to do before and during a flood can be accessed on the Launceston City Council website.

Alternatively, this information can be found on the ABC’s facebook page.

A public enquiry hotline has been established for members of the public seeking further information, 1800 049 508.