Emergency services prepare for more flooding

Emergency services prepare for more flooding

14/10/2022, 5:02 PM

Victorian emergency services continue to work around the clock in response to this week’s severe weather event, with major flooding impacts expected over the course of today and into next week. 

In the past 24 hours, the Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) has received over 2,679 Requests for Assistance (RFA), including more than 119 flood rescues since midnight. Requests for assistance have been widespread across the state, with VICSES Bendigo Unit volunteers the busiest, receiving 279 RFAs in the past 24 hours. 

VICSES crews are once again reminding Victorians to never drive on flooded roads. It can take just 15cm of water for a small vehicle to float, and it could be the last decision you make.

There are several inundated roads across the state, both in metro Melbourne and in regional Victoria. If you plan to travel over the next few days, ensure you plan your route. Visit the VicTraffic website for the latest on road closures – https://traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au/

 

There may also be changes to public transport schedules, ensure you visit the Public Transport Victoria website for disruption information: www.ptv.vic.gov.au/

Emergency service authorities will continue to work with local councils regarding the activation of relief centres, with several operational from today, including: 

  • Benalla - Benalla Performing Arts Centre, Samaria Road Benalla
  • Bendigo - Showgrounds, Holmes Road, Nth Bendigo
  • Echuca - Echuca United Football & Netball Club, 252 High Street
  • Heathcote - Heathcote RSL, High Street
  • Maribyrnong - Maribyrnong Community Centre, 9 Randall Street, Maribyrnong
  • Maryborough - Maryborough Sports and Leisure Centre, 40 Gillies Street
  • Seymour - Sports & Aquatic Centre, Chittick Park, Pollard Street
  • Shepparton - Shepparton Sports Centre, Numurkah Rd
  • Wedderburn - Wedderburn Hall, 28 High Street

There are currently more than 90 warnings active across the state, with five Evacuate Immediately Emergency Warnings issued, including for the Maribyrnong River, where more than 60 properties have been affected due to rapidly rising flood water; Benalla; Carisbook, Seymour and Rochester. 

Residents in low lying areas between Benalla, Baddiginnie and Tamook have been advised it’s too late to leave. 

Overnight, seven emergency alert campaigns were delivered for areas including Wedderburn, Maribrynong, Seymour and Benalla, with almost 37,000 SMS alert messages distributed to at-risk residents.