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PORT Douglas’ water levels have risen from 16% earlier today to 23% which means that consumption has been reduced, however, the shire still faces a critical period regarding water supplies, and the situation is still considered serious.

The encouraging news is that the possibility of boiling water for drinking purposes is on hold as is the capacity. Earlier today, we reported that capacity was only expected to last five hours at current usage rates. This is no longer the case.  

The threat of having to boil water did put many families on alert and the town’s supermarkets ensured they had plentiful supplies of bottled water.

Daintree (79%) and Flagstaff (70%) have the highest water levels, meaning their consumption is well under control. Craiglie is the lowest on 21%, followed by Mossman on 26% and Port Douglas 23%.

A Council spokesperson said it is imperative that the water must be treated accordingly and said the recent deluge had caused sand and debris to block the intakes. The high turbidity levels slowed down the water treatment process, which is required to make clean and safe water.

Although this does not impact the consumer, Council is hoping the water treatment plant continues to operate. After heavy rains last night, it shut down for a period, and no water was pumped into the reservoirs.

“There are so many factors involved, but we cannot stress enough that shire residents must be vigilant. And although we have received considerable rainfall, the need to keep the water clean becomes a major challenge,” the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, in an updated statement released late this afternoon, Council said water storage levels in Douglas Shire have been holding at critically low levels.

“Residents and businesses must still not use water for non-essential purposes, such as hosing mud or running sprinkler systems.

“Consumption levels have reduced slightly, but the situation is still considered serious.

“Water treatment is continuing and supply is trending upwards. If the public continues to restrict water usage for drinking, cooking and hygiene purposes, water levels should be restored to acceptable capacity,” the statement said.

And with the looming threat of having to boil water for drinking, Mayor Julia Leu said earlier today the situation is urgent.

CURRENT WATER LEVELS 
- Mossman - 26%
- Port Douglas - 23%
- Craiglie - 21%
- Flagstaff - 70%
- Whyanbeel - 49%
- Daintree - 79%

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