Coloured and dirty water

18 Dec 2009

Darwin River Dam levels have risen half a metre following 285mm rainfall in 24 hours.

Power and Water General Manager Water Services Paul Heaton said the catchment had not received that much rain in one day for more than 30 years.

"This was exceptional rainfall,” he said.

“The previous record for Darwin River Dam was 277mm on Christmas Day 1974, as a result of Cyclone Tracey.

“This sudden inflow has stirred up the water sediment in the dam and residents may see coloured or dirty water as a result.”

The water has been tested and is safe to drink and use however, if you run two taps or a sprinkler for a few minutes, it should clear.

Coloured or dirty water may cause white laundry to discolour. Keep affected items wet and treat them with stain remover or dishwashing detergent.

If at any stage you are concerned about your water supply, phone Power and Water on 1800 245 092.

Power and Water has recently completed major work on the dam embankment with work to raise the spillway by 1.3 metres to take place over the next Dry Season which will eventually increase the dam capacity by 20 per cent.

We are hosting an open day at the dam’s public picnic area from 5 to 7pm this Saturday.