Heavy overnight rainfall forces closure of roads north of Daintree River, Douglas Shire on level 4 water restrictions

Heavy overnight rain in the Daintree has forced all roads north of the Daintree River to re-close this morning.

A source told Newsport just moments ago that Daintree Village received 175mm of overnight rain, which has led to Barrett’s Creek being flooded again.

Just moments ago Douglas Shire Council said Cape Tribulation Rd is “now closed to all traffic due to more landslips and rockfalls”.

It’s now unclear if workers will be able to work on removing a major landslip at Noah’s range due to last night’s heavy rain.

Meantime, in another overnight blow, Council said Port Douglas, Mossman and Newell Beach residents must reduce water use immediately, or potentially face more disruptions to supply, after heavy rainfall overnight caused a key water main to break.

Local water levels have moved to level 4.

“We are urging locals to do the right thing and be mindful of how they use water,” Douglas Shire Council Acting CEO, Scott Mason said.

“Our crews are working to fix the broken water main at Crees Creek as quickly as possible.

“We can’t stress enough how important it is for everyone to respect the new restrictions to protect our already vulnerable water supply.”

Douglas Shire Council advised if the demand for water does not decrease, Council will be compelled to implement rolling limitations and/or stopping of supply across the Shire.

“Residents are advised to avoid any unnecessary water consumption, such as long showers, washing machines, using the hose for cleaning, filling pools or watering lawns,” Mr Mason said.

“By working together, we can overcome this water shortage and ensure the long-term sustainability of our water resources.”

Lastly, the Daintree Ferry is expected to close at 10am today during the high tide and will re-open when it’s safe to do so.