After the wettest October on record, Lake Torrens to the west of the Flinders Ranges is flooded. This event was captured by The Operational Land Imager-2 (OLI-2) on Landsat 9 on October 28, 2022. Read more about the flooding of Lake Torrens on NASA’s Earth Observatory site.
When not enjoying geology and astronomy tours at Arkaroola, one of the many ways to take in the spectacular mountain views is the Acacia Ridge WallkingTrail. It’s a 5.6km moderate walk across a mountain ridge, ending at the Arkaroola Village. The views of the ranges in all directions are breathtaking and there are many flowering plants inhabiting the rocky slopes that are uncommon in other parts of the Flinders Ranges.
While weathering and seasonal rains can cause waterholes at to silt up, Paralana Hot Springs continue to flow as a shallow stream. Sourced from within a fault zone, the water is around 60 degrees and emits gases such as radon which is heavier than air and hovers around the creek area on still days. A wonderful array of Cyanobacteria, Proteobacteria and algae thrive in the Paralana Hot Springs.
While often little more than shallow pools or soaks, springs are essential for life in the arid Flinders Ranges. When combined with a flushing rain, creeks throughout the Flinders Ranges can house pristine waterholes supporting a wide range of wildlife, including frogs.
The desert river systems of the Channel Country are filling Lake Eyre from the north. As floodwaters flow toward the inland Great Artesian Basin, the arid land is transforming into an unusually green vista that can be viewed from the air. Flights over Lake Eyre and the Channel Country are available from William Creek.
The isopods (Phreatomerus latipes) living in the trickling overflow of the unique and beautiful Mound Springs north of the Flinders Ranges may look like garden slaters but are in fact a rare and ancient species of crustacean endemic to the ecological niche of the desert springs. Learn more about these evolutionary time capsules of the desert on the Friends of Mound Springs website.
The Flinders Ranges have long been recognised for a striking range of colour from ochre and iron oxide to dusty violets and ghostly purples. Following summer rains, a vibrant flush of green has temporarily transformed the look of the landscape.
