Santa’s arrival isn’t the only thing that Territorians looks forward to over the Christmas period.
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Clouds gather dark on the horizon and the smell of rain is in the air.
The storms of the wet season are worth the wait as thunder rumbling off in the distance brings with it relief from the heat and a rise in humidity that wakes every plant for miles.
These early showers are of vital importance to wildlife struggling with dry, parched landscapes, but it can result in unexpected stream rises and quickly inundated roads – travellers beware!
Lower lying areas across the Top End are already feeling the effects of early storms.
Many bush roads and four wheel drive tracks on Parks and Reserves are now closed for the rest of the wet season preventing costly damage and ensuring their timely opening at the start of the next dry.
It is important that visitors to our Parks and Reserves respect these road closures. Wheel ruts and track braiding around bogs quickly erode away leaving the roads damaged and unable to be used for a long time.
The conditions of many of our Park access roads are published on the Road Report website and closures are updated as soon as possible.
It can be a particularly difficult time for travel in the bush.
A check of the Parks and Wildlife Commission NT website and Facebook pages are also essential and if you are planning on visiting our very remote Parks a quick call to the local Ranger station will bring you right up to date.
Water levels in popular swimming spots will start to rise soon and many of these will also be closed for the season due to the increased risk of saltwater crocodiles entering the area.
Increased water flow can also lead to dangerous swimming conditions, even in waterholes high on the escarpment.
Safety is always important but the early wet season, with its hot temperatures, unpredictable weather and a rapidly changing environment, can be a particularly difficult time for travel in the bush.
Preparation is the key. Always let a responsible someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. A well-equipped vehicle and a good communication plan go hand-in-hand.
Most of all, always know before you go!
Check the road report website at www.ntlis.nt.gov.au/roadreport/ and the Parks and Wildlife website.
