New Norfolk braces for high tide, dam water release

As rain continues to fall across the Derwent Valley and Tasmania as a whole into the new week, floodwaters are streaming downriver and across riverfront sections through New Norfolk.

Prospects for respite remain dim.

The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting another front late Sunday, on top of which, the new high tide - adding as much as 1.4 metres to the Derwent - is due mid-evening.

More, the Gazette was advised mid-afternoon that Hydro Tasmania was expected to shortly release water from its upriver storages to relieve the buildup at those dams.    

The State Emergency Service has encouraged the Derwent River, Meadowbank to Macquarie Plains and Styx River, Bushy Park to Macquarie Plains and surrounds to evacuate now.

“Properties in this region face a significant risk of flooding in the next 12 hours and it is likely roads and properties will become inundated by floodwaters and become inaccessible. Anyone in the area is asked to use all the information available to ensure which warning is relevant to them and when planning what action they will take," Executive Director of Tasmania SES, Mick Lowe, said.

“Two evacuation centres are open – one at the Derwent Valley Sport and Recreation Centre on Derwent Terrace in New Norfolk, and another at the Memorial Hall in Circle Street.”

“Consider going to stay with family or friends, and make the decision as early as possible as parts of the Lyell Highway and Glenora and Boyer Roads may become flooded.”

People in need assistance from SES please call 132 500, or in a life-threatening emergency call Triple Zero (000).

Photos: Ngaire Melhop, Derek Jones, Mike Kerr.