General News
20 October, 2022
SES prepare for more rain, residents urged to be ready
After two weeks of flash flooding and an evacuation order for Carisbrook, Maryborough SES say they are hopeful rain predicted for early next week will not have a significant impact on the region, but are still preparing for whatever may come. As of...
After two weeks of flash flooding and an evacuation order for Carisbrook, Maryborough SES say they are hopeful rain predicted for early next week will not have a significant impact on the region, but are still preparing for whatever may come.
As of Thursday, the Bureau of Meteorology predicted the chance of a severe thunderstorm in the afternoon with up to 15 millimetres of rain.
Both Saturday and Sunday could see up to 6 mm of rain, while higher totals are predicted for Monday (15-30 mm).
Maryborough SES deputy controller Emily Hooke said while it’s still early to predict the impacts of next week, emergency services are remaining vigilant.
“The latest forecast is that there will be some rainfall over Friday, Saturday and Sunday but with low totals,” she said.
“Monday and Tuesday are of more concern for us. It’s important to note that even the Bureau don’t have a rainfall total locked down because there’s so many variables.
“We’re hopeful we won’t get as much rain as last week, but we’re anticipating it could be worse.”
Ms Hooke said SES will be monitoring local water ways over the coming days.
“You never know where the rain will fall — it’s not necessarily about what towns it hits, but what catchments it falls on. We’re monitoring Ballarat, Clunes, Creswick, even Castlemaine because the catchment for McCallums Creek runs through there.
“We’re extremely happy with how well the creek has gone down in Carisbrook. It’s still sitting high, but the flow seems to be good which is encouraging.
“We’re hopeful but we’re prepared for whatever may come.”
Residents should take the weekend to prepare their properties for more rain, Ms Hooke said.
“It’s about being vigilant, practical and calm about what steps to take,” she said.
“We want residents to do their flood preparation this weekend. Clear out drains and check drain pipes and gutters.”
Residents are encouraged to sign up to the Vulnerable Persons Register ahead of next week.
The register is a local list of people who may need consideration in an emergency such as those who are frail and/or physically or cognitively impaired, or unable to comprehend warnings and directions and/or respond in an emergency situation.
To register, contact your service provider (someone who provides a care service in home).
Stay up-to-date with the latest flood warnings by downloading the VicEmergency app or visiting www.emergency.vic.gov.au/respond
Do not enter or drive through flood waters.
Call VICSES if you need assistance on 132 500, or Triple Zero (000) if you are in immediate danger.