Emergency warning flooding will peak tomorrow

Flooding overnight in Yarra Junction. PICTURE: FACEBOOK

A moderate flood warning has been issued for the Yarra Valley due to rising water levels in the Yarra River from Millgrove to Coldstream.

This follows the region seeing another down pour overnight with many roads covered in flood waters and businesses affected from rising waters.

Water levels of the Yarra River (and Watts Rivers) at various locations are rising in response to the rain.

The level of the Yarra River at Coldstream is currently at 4.66 metres, exceeding the Minor Flood Level (4.00 metres) and rising.

It is expected to peak around the Moderate Flood Level (5.10 metres) on Saturday morning (29 October 2022).

Local residents are being urged to prepare for flooding now and take action to protect your life, animals and property against potential hazards caused by flooding.

What you should do:

Floodwater is dangerous – never enter floodwater.

If you choose to leave:

Remember to take your pets, mobile phone, spare clothes and medications.

Travel to the home of family or friends who are in a safe location, away from flooding.

Turn off gas and electricity at your home or workplace.

Be aware of any road closures when you leave.

If you are travelling:

Do not enter flooded areas. Turn around a find a safe alternative route.

Be aware of road hazards including mud, debris and damaged roads or bridges.

Floodwater is dangerous – never drive, walk or ride through floodwater.

If you stay or if it is unsafe to leave:

Make sure you have enough food, drinking water, medications and pet food to survive for three to five days in case you become isolated.

Use plugs, sandbags or household items to block toilets, sinks and drains to stop sewerage backflow.

Lift it – move valuables and vital household items up on high surfaces, such as on top of tables, chairs, benches and beds.

Impacts in your area:

Flooding above floor level of a single-story home is likely to occur in some locations.

Check the VicTraffic website (traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au) for road closures and follow instructions from emergency services.

This message was issued by State Emergency Service.

The next update is expected by 28/10/2022 09:30 pm or as the situation changes.

Use multiple sources to stay informed:

www.emergency.vic.gov.au

VicEmergency Hotline – freecall 1800 226 226

VicEmergency app

Facebook or Twitter (#vicfloods)

Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.

Accessibility:

The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency.

To access this information in other languages, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline.

If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.