Flooding from south-west Queensland and the north-east region of South Australia is set to create a remarkable event at Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, one of the nation’s rare phenomena. This vast dry salt lake, Australia’s lowest point at 15 metres below sea level and spanning approximately 9,500 square kilometres, is being filled for the fourth time in 160 years due to record rainfall.
According to South Australian Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison, the lake’s full state offers a unique experience for visitors and residents alike. Locals in William Creek anticipate the most significant filling since 1974. This increase in water levels is not only rejuvenating the lake’s crust but also drawing various species of wildlife, extending even to birds from China and Japan.
When the waters rise, life flourishes—brine shrimp hatch from desiccated eggs, millions of waterbirds migrate to the lake, and fish from the surrounding floodwaters spawn and thrive on the abundant shrimp. The event is anticipated to attract photographers and campers eager to witness this natural spectacle.
The water levels are expected to rise from early May and fluctuate until October, creating a vibrant ecosystem and providing a stunning backdrop for explorers and nature enthusiasts. The transformative power of this flooding phenomenon showcases the dynamic relationship between climate and the environment in outback Australia, making Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre a focal point of ecological and tourism interest in the coming months.