South Australia’s severe weather is set to continue this afternoon and evening with another vigorous weather front containing strong to gale force winds and possible heavy rain, according to the forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM).

This latest front could be longer in duration with increased winds averaging 50 to 60km per hour and possible gusts of up to 90km per hour.

The state has been battered by strong winds and heavy rain since last Friday and many creeks and waterways are swollen, causing numerous road closures in both metropolitan and regional locations.

State Emergency Service (SES) Chief of Staff Graeme Wynwood said that the SES had received more than 350 calls for assistance from the public over the past three days and is urging drivers to use caution on wet roads and be mindful of fallen trees.

“With rain, wind and possible hail, roads can become extremely slippery and, as we have seen in recent weeks, fallen trees across roads are a real hazard,” Mr. Wynwood said.

“The forecast for continuing high and possibly gale force winds could also mean more fallen trees blocking roadways or damaging property.
“There is also the risk that many roads will be closed or damaged by the recent stormy weather and drivers should not take the risk of driving through flooded waterways.

“Drivers or walkers should never enter floodwater as it can be difficult to determine the hazards beneath the water,” Mr Wynwood said.

The public can gain access to sand and sandbags at Bridgewater CFS, Carey Gully Road, Bridgewater between 11am and 2pm today.

If you need to report an incident call SES on 132 500 or if it is life-threatening call Triple Zero (000).

The SES also advises the following precautions:

• Never drive, ride or walk through floodwaters
• If you don’t absolutely need to drive within the next 12 hours, don’t
• Do not, under any circumstances, use outdoor appliances inside the house
• Stay away from fallen powerlines. Always assume fallen powerlines are live – they should be reported to SA Power Networks on 13 13 66
• Park vehicles undercover and well away from trees
• Stay indoors and away from windows and skylights when weather conditions are severe
• Check weather forecasts regularly and listen to local radio for updates.