Police have issued dire warnings about crocodiles in northern Australia’s Northern Territory following devastating floods that swept through towns and communities over the weekend, with Katherine being hit by its worst flooding since 1998.
The region has endured relentless rains, prompting more than 1,000 people to be evacuated across the state. Helicopters and aircraft were deployed for a rescue operation in remote areas, with police advising against swimming or venturing into water due to “crocs absolutely everywhere.”
Police Incident Control Acting Commander Shaun Gill emphasized that at least 90 homes had lost power while warning residents about crocodiles’ presence. He stated, “Don’t swim; it’s unsafe. Crocs are all around us and we must be cautious.” Police also urged against any risky behavior such as jumping into the floodwaters.
Assistant police commissioner Travis Wurst further warned, “Stay out of water—there’s a risk to your life.” The message was especially urgent for residents in the town of Katherine, who face conditions where crocodiles are most active and pose significant danger.
The flooding has led to several schools being closed on Monday due to safety concerns. Northern Territory Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro noted that more than 100,000 saltwater and freshwater crocodiles inhabit the region, including those of the fearsome saltwater variety which can grow up to twenty feet long.
A 40-year-old man was rescued by police from Beswick’s raging floodwaters on Sunday. The individual became fatigued in trying to swim against a fast-flowing current. Officers used a boat to rescue him, emphasizing that staying away from water is critical due to the risks of injury and illness.
The Northern Territory Police Force has reinforced their warning: “Stay out if it’s flooded—there are too many dangers lurking,” Superintendent Virginia Read stated in a press release. This latest incident underscores the region’s vulnerability to floods exacerbated by climate change, which researchers predict will increase natural disaster risk.
In 2022, authorities warned of similar dangers from floodwaters in Queensland when they spotted what they believed was a bull shark’s fin. The Northern Territory is one of Australia’s most sparsely populated areas and regularly faces extreme weather events, underscoring the need for vigilance during such emergencies.