Bureau of Meteorology flood warning system for the Gilbert River

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) operates a flood warning system for the Gilbert River catchment. The system combines observations from on the ground volunteers, who report when pre-determined flood heights are exceeded at their property, and several automatic telemetry stations throughout the catchment. Information about past floods is also available.

Flood warning system sites for the Gilbert and Norman catchments

Flood warning system sites (Source: BOM)

Warning from the system are broadcast on radio stations, through BOM websites, and via local response organisations. Local organisations in and around Georgetown include:

  • State Emergency Service (SES) (Gulf Developmental Road, Georgetown): (07) 4062 1122
  • Police (High Street, Georgetown): (07) 4062 1209
  • Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (SES Building, Gulf Development Road, Georgetown)

Anecdotal evidence has suggested that small tributaries of the major rivers can flood, with many not monitored as part of the network, meaning that floods would likely occur without warning in these tributaries.

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