奇速英语

洪水过后鳄鱼横行，澳洲发布紧急警告

On Sunday, police in Australia’s Northern Territory warned that crocodiles were “absolutely everywhere” as hundreds of people were evacuated after massive floods. The town of Katherine experienced its worst flooding since 1998, with the Katherine River peaking at 19.2 metres. Police used six aircraft and 18 helicopters to evacuate about 1,000 people from remote communities to shelters.

Authorities warned residents against swimming in the floodwaters. “There are crocodiles absolutely everywhere. Please don’t go in the water,” said Shaun Gill, police incident control acting commander. “Don’t swim for two reasons: it’s a fast-flowing river, and this is when crocodiles are most active.” The Northern Territory chief minister, Lia Finocchiaro, said several schools would remain closed and would be used as shelters. At least 90 homes lost power, and the Stuart Highway remained closed due to flooding, leaving the town isolated.

More than 100,000 saltwater and freshwater crocodiles are estimated to live across northern Australia. Saltwater crocodiles can grow up to more than 20 feet (over 6 metres), weigh more than a ton, and have a bite powerful enough to crush a human skull. With floodwaters rising, crocodiles can move into new and unexpected areas, including creeks, drains and flooded roads. One resident posted on social media that she had seen a crocodile floating down the street, while another video showed a crocodile running across a road.

The vast Northern Territory is one of Australia’s least densely populated areas and is often struck by extreme weather. Researchers have warned that climate change increases the risk of natural disasters such as floods and cyclones. The Bureau of Meteorology said heavy rains were also expected in Queensland, with flood warnings already in place. The region is experiencing a long and widespread wet season.

Police strongly urged people to stay out of floodwaters. “The risk of injury, sickness and death are too high — if it’s flooded, forget it,” said Superintendent Virginia Read. Officials advised residents to stay away from the water’s edge, keep children and pets away, and assume any waterway may contain a crocodile.