The River Murray peak flow has now reached the Lower Lakes after passing through Mannum on 7 January, Murray Bridge on 9 January and Wellington on 11 January.

Wind, tides and wave action may cause temporary inundation in low lying areas around the lakes as the peak moves through, according to Emergency Services Minister Joe Szakacs.

“As the peak moves through the Lower Lakes, it is important shack owners keep up to date with the latest advice from the SASES, SA Power Networks and other government agencies.

“While it’s pleasing to see the peak edge closer to the ocean, a Flood Emergency Warning for the entire river in SA remains in place and I urge people to continue to take care.

“We had a tragic loss of life in Loxton North this week and my condolences go to Robert Westbrook’s family and friends. I just urge everyone to check the advice and take extreme care around the river while these warnings are in place.”

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport is continuing to closely monitor the Princes Highway between Tailem Bend and Meningie which is potentially at risk of closure due to rising water levels and tide and wind conditions.

A speed limit of 60km/h is currently in place to ensure road users can safely navigate this section. In the event of a closure, a detour will be put in place via the Dukes Highway and McIntosh Way.

Milang shack owners are in the process of being reconnected with SMS messages sent via SA Power Networks to affected customers.

As of midday on 9 January, 68 catastrophic levee defects have been identified along with 168 major, 57 moderate and 84 minor from around 700 inspections had been undertaken.

SA SES Chief Officer Chris Beattie says: “ The Levee Inspection Team continue their daily inspections and we are aware of 20 levees which have overtopped or breached along the River Murray.

“Over the coming days we will be closely monitoring the levees at Woods Point, Monteith, Jervois and River Glen/White Sands.

“While levels are falling in some areas it is important to remember that the river remains in flood and a Flood Emergency Warning remains in place for the entire river. We remind people that the river remains hazardous due to fast flowing water and submerged hazards.

“The SASES is asking people to respect and follow directions regarding road closures and restricted water activities for their own safety.”

Up until Tuesday 10 January, SA Power Networks have disconnected power to around 3574 connection points - mostly due to inundation.

Drier conditions throughout the Murray Darling Basin have seen flow rates at the SA border reduce by about 50 gigalitres a day since the peak passed through on 23 December.

SA Health is recommending against swimming and diving between the Barmera Jetty and the Lake Bonney Yacht Club at Lake Bonney until further notice. However, other parts of the lake are not impacted and remain safe for all water activities including boating and kayaking.

The lake is on track to be reopened to River Murray flows when water levels recede to between 12.3 and 12.5 metres (AHD) which is expected to occur in late January.

SA Health has also confirmed there is currently no evidence of increased microbial contamination, including E.coli in floodwaters entering Goolwa and nearby beaches.

An Emergency Relief Centre has now been opened at the Ramblers Football Club in Murray Bridge where, along with those already operating at Berri and Mannum, the public can access information and apply for support including financial relief and emergency accommodation.

People can call the Relief Information line on 1800 302 787 seven days a week from 9am to 5pm.

To view water levels at different locations along the river visit www.sa.gov.au

People wanting more information on the River Murray flood event can call River Murray hotline on 1800 362 361 anytime.