Flood Watch Yarra River Downstream - Melbourne
Staying Safe in the Face of Flooding: A Vital Message for Victoria Residents
This is an urgent message from the State Emergency Service regarding potential flooding in the region, specifically focusing on the Yarra River downstream. A Flood Watch has been issued, and you must take immediate action to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and your property.
General Advice:
1. Avoid Floodwater: Floodwater is extremely dangerous. Never attempt to drive, walk, or ride through flooded areas. It only takes a small amount of moving water to sweep a person or vehicle away.
2. Evacuation Planning: Consider the possibility of evacuation. Have a clear plan for yourself and your family, including knowing the location of evacuation centres and what essential items to bring.
3. Awareness of Rising Water Levels: Stay vigilant and monitor the water levels in your vicinity. Rising floodwaters can be perilous, and early awareness can be crucial for your safety.
Travelling Precautions:
1. Avoid Flooded Areas: Do not enter flooded regions. Turn around and find alternative, safe routes to your destination.
2. Road Hazards: Be cautious of road hazards such as mud, debris, and damaged roads or bridges. Check the VicTraffic website for real-time information on road closures and follow instructions from emergency services.
Impacts in Victoria:
1. Property Flooding: Flooding above the floor level of single-story homes is likely in many locations.
2. Isolated Properties: A small number of properties may be impacted and could become isolated.
3. Infrastructure Disruptions: Main roads and bridges may be closed due to flooding, potentially causing disruptions in services like power, water, sewerage, and telephone.
Specific Information for Melbourne Residents:
A slow-moving low-pressure system is causing widespread rainfall, leading to minor, isolated moderate, and major flooding. The system is expected to move out over the Tasman Sea early Tuesday.
What You Should Do:
1. Prepare for Impact: Plan what you and your family will do if flooding affects your area. Visit www.ses.vic.gov.au/get-ready/floodsafe for preparation tips.
2. Stay Informed: Listen to emergency broadcasters, monitor warnings, and keep an eye on weather forecasts and river levels at www.bom.gov.au/vic/warnings/.
3. Avoid Floodwater: Never play or swim in floodwater, as it is toxic and can pose severe health risks.
Local Impacts:
1. River and Stream Flooding: Areas around rivers and streams may be flooded.
2. Caravan Parks and Camping Grounds: Flooding may impact caravan parks and camping grounds.
3. Road Closures: Local roads may be closed, and low bridges may be underwater.
The State Emergency Service issues this message, and the next update is expected by 09/01/2024 at 03:00 pm or as the situation changes.
Stay Informed:
1. Visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au
2. VicEmergency Hotline: 1800 226 226 (free call)
3. VicEmergency app
4. Facebook or Twitter (#vicfloods)
5. Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.
Accessibility:
For language assistance, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (free). If you have a speech or hearing impairment, contact the National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.
Your safety is our top priority. Please take these warnings seriously, stay informed, and follow the recommended precautions. Together, we can navigate through this challenging situation.
