Water level surge brings relief to North Fly

Fly River water levels at the Kiunga Wharf have surged following heavy rainfall in the headwaters, bringing relief to residents and businesses relying on river transport in North Fly.

The water level rose to 6.98 metres at 7.28am this morning and continues to swell following continuous downpours in the Ok Tedi catchment.

Rainfall data from Ok Tedi operations showed the catchment recorded 168 millimetres of rain within 24 hours, while the Upper Fly catchment recorded 16mm.

The latest figure marks an increase of more than half a metre from Sunday’s reading of 6.5m.

The sudden rise is expected to assist cargo vessels previously stranded along the Fly River, clearing the way for ships to reach Kiunga Wharf and offload essential supplies.

Rain has also been reported in Tabubil, Kiunga, and the mountainous areas of Olsobip Rural LLG in North Fly district, with dark clouds hovering over Kiunga signaling further rain.

The Ok Tedi catchment covers the area from Tabubil through Ningerum, where the Ok Tedi River joins the Fly River just upstream of Kiunga.

Officials say river levels would continue to fluctuate depending on mid-week weather conditions, with the PNG National Weather Service expected to issue updates.

Meanwhile, authorities have urged communities living along the Fly River system to stay alert and monitor water levels.