TRAFFIC ALERT
15 OCTOBER 2010
FLOODS CLOSE HIGHWAYS ACROSS
SOUTH WEST REGION
Sections of three local highways in the South West Region have been
closed due to flooding.
Motorists are advised the Sturt Highway between Narrandera and Wagga
Wagga, the Olympic Highway between the Hume Highway and Wagga
Wagga and the Hume Highway southbound at Tarcutta
and northbound at
Holbrook are closed.
No diversions are available for light vehicles at this stage so motorists are
encouraged to delay their trips until the highways re-open.
River Road is also closed due to flooding which means the Wymah Ferry
service has been closed indefinitely.
It is anticipated that more roads may close if the rain continues.
Motorists are encouraged to comply with all road signs, including reduced
speeds and any changed traffic conditions and should take extra care when
driving on roads today and over the weekend because of the dangers of
water on the road.
It is extremely important motorists drive to the conditions, especially as
more rain is expected in the next 24 hours.
Further information is also available by calling the Traffic Management
Centre on 132 701.
Some simple measures motorists should take in flood conditions:
If you live in an area where flooding may occur, move your vehicle to higher
ground if flooding is expected.
As well as the risk of damage to your vehicle by leaving it in a flooded area
it may also be a hazard or cause obstruction to emergency services.
Do not drive unless your journey is absolutely necessary.
If you have to drive in a flooded area, take care. Do not attempt to drive
through water if you are unsure of the depth.
Don't drive through fast-moving water such as at a flooded bridge approach
–
your car could be swept away.
When driving through water, drive slowly and steadily to avoid creating a
wave and allow on-coming traffic to pass first.
Keep the engine revs high otherwise water in the exhaust could stall the
engine.
If your car stalls, immediately abandon it and climb to higher ground. Watch
your footing. Just six inches of fast-moving flood water can sweep you off
your feet.
Test your brakes as soon as you can after driving through water.
CONTACT:
RTA Media Unit 8588 5999
NEWS 
