Severe Storm Warning Issued for Alice and Surrounding Areas
Central Australia is bracing for severe storms following unusually humid conditions and days of rainfall. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe storm warning for Alice Springs and nearby regions.
Details of the Warning
Issued just after 3:30 PM on Tuesday, the warning highlights that a highly humid and unstable air mass is contributing to the development of severe thunderstorms.
Affected Areas
- Alice Springs
- Simpson District
- Lasseter District
- Tanami District
This warning is particularly relevant for communities including Yuendumu, Papunya, Yulara, and Hermannsburg. Authorities predict that these thunderstorms could generate significant rainfall, leading to flash flooding and strong wind gusts in the affected regions.
Safety Advisories for Residents
Residents and motorists are advised to exercise caution. Key recommendations include:
- Slow down when driving and turn on headlights.
- Secure outdoor items to prevent them from becoming hazards.
- Avoid driving through floodwaters.
Impact of Recent Rains
The severe storm warning follows heavy rains that transformed the normally dry Todd River in Alice Springs on Monday. Multiple low-lying roads, including Palm Circuit, Schwarz Crescent, Undooyla Road, and Tuncks Road, were shut down due to flooding.
Flooding has also affected segments of Namatjira Drive and the Tanami Highway outside of Alice Springs. A spokesperson from NT Police confirmed they are closely monitoring the situation regarding road safety and future road openings.
Public Awareness
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and adjust their driving to match the wet conditions. It is critical to avoid any attempts to cross floodwaters, which can be deceptive and dangerous.
