VIC SES and councils issue flood warning
Residents across Victoria’s river systems are bracing for floods after a severe weather warning was issued for much of the state, beginning on 12 October.
Councils throughout Victoria are providing flood updates for residents, and in some cases, sandbags to protect properties.
With over 100mm of rain already recorded in the Northern Goulburn-Broken catchment, Victorian State Emergency Service (SES) officials have warned that Victoria’s Central and Northern regions are at high risk of flooding.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has estimated that from 13-14 October, Central and Northern Victoria will be hit with heavy rain comprising six-hourly totals of 30 to 50mm overnight Wednesday and into Thursday for central and northern Victoria.
The Victorian SES has also issued Watch and Act warnings across eighteen areas of regional Victoria, with widespread heavy rain, isolated thunderstorms and damaging winds set to cause moderate to major flooding across these regions.
The warning was expanded on 13 October to include Melbourne and North-east Victoria.
Flash flooding may also become a risk in theMelbourne area on 13 October in the afternoon and evening. Heavy rain will also increase the risk of landslips and debris across roads.
The City of Greater Geelong has worked with SES Victoria to set up a sandbag collection point at St Albans Reserve in Thomson, as the City prepares to receive significant rainfall over the coming days.
Residents will need to fill sandbags themselves using the sand onsite and are advised to bring a spade. The sandbags will be available from 9am to 7pm.
City of Greater Geelong Director of City Services, Guy Wilson Browne, said residents and businesses are advised to prepare for flash and river flooding.
“We’ve worked with the SES to make sandbags available to help try to reduce the impact of flooding on homes or businesses. Sandbags will not stop the water completely but can reduce the amount of water entering your property,” Mr Wilson-Browne said.
“City crews have been out clearing major drains in preparation for heavy rainfall, and we’re ready to respond to incidents that may arise.
“We urge residents to stay inside wherever possible and to never drive through flood waters.”
Merri-bek City Council has provided its residents with a flood mapping guide to monitor the level of risk to their property and safety, which can be found here.
The City of Whittlesea has also provided a storm updates page here.
BOM and the Victorian SES continue to monitor the situation closely, providing regular updates to forecasts and warnings.
Residents and communities living on or near any rivers, creeks and streams or in low lying areas are advised to stay up to date with the latest state forecasts and warnings.
For all the latest warnings see the BOM’s National Warnings Summary.
For assistance contact the SES on 132 500.
