Visitors to the ACT’s parks and reserves are being urged to take extra care when heading out following extended rain and thunderstorms.
Director of ACT Parks and Conservation Service, Daniel Iglesias said some parks and reserves had been impacted by extended periods of heavy rain over summer.
“We’re expecting to see more people heading out to our parks and reserves as the school holidays begin,” Mr Iglesias said.
“Regardless of your level of experience, make sure you take extra precautions when getting out into nature as we may see further rain into already saturated catchments over the coming days,” he said.
“Namadgi National Park is a part of the Australian alpine area, which means conditions can change and deteriorate very quickly.”
Mr Iglesias said visitors should be prepared that the weather could turn without warning.
The Director advised people who weren’t completely comfortable and prepared for their trip to stay closer to home and consider returning another day.
“Bring plenty of food and water, warm clothes including gloves and headwear, and wear appropriate footwear,” he said.
“Make sure to tell family or friends where you are going and when you expect to return as mobile phone reception is extremely poor in some areas.”
Mr Iglesias said the Territory’s streams and creeks were full of water and flood waters could occur suddenly without much warning, “leaving you trapped or stranded if you are unprepared”.
He said people should steer clear of low-lying areas such as creeks, stormwater drains or other causeways, and take extra care around trees and other debris.
“Strong winds and flood waters are dangerous and will move fallen trees unpredictably, and can even topple or uproot standing trees,” Mr Iglesias said.
