A comprehensive review of flood warning levels has been undertaken in East Gippsland towns, and their impact on local communities during flooding.

The Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES), in partnership with the Bureau of Meteorology, the EastGippsland Catchment Management Authority (EGCMA) and East Gippsland Shire Council (EGSC), have collaborated on this initiative.

The intent of this project has been to align the issued warnings with the expected impacts and consequences on local communities.

As of a result of this review, the river level thresholds for flooding will now change across six locations in EastGippsland.

The changes ensure flood warnings reflect the expected impact of floods along rivers in East Gippsland allowing authorities and communities to prepare and take action to stay safe.

The change includes the revision of the heights of minor, moderate and major levels at:

• Jarrahmond on the Snowy River

• the Gorge on the Genoa River

• Bairnsdale on the Mitchell River

• Buchan on the Buchan River.

The changes also involve the removal of the minor flood level classification at McKillops Bridge on the Snowy River. The existing moderate and major classifications will remain.

The forecast location at Orbost on the Snowy River will be removed. This means flood warnings will no longer be issued for this location.

Over the course of the last two years, the collaborating agencies have engaged in extensive discussions with community members. These conversations have been instrumental in reviewing proposed changes in various localities to ensure warning levels reflect the impacts and consequences. ​

A particular focus has been placed on individuals involved in emergency response efforts and those residing, and working, in flood-prone areas.

The valuable data collected throughout this project, will empower VICSES to identify potential risks and strategically align protective measures to mitigate these risks. This, in turn, will bolster the agency's operational response capability in East Gippsland.

Community members are encouraged to check their local flood guide on the VICSES website – ses.vic.gov.au. 

For more information on this project, click here.  

For more information, contact:

VICSES State Media Duty Officer
Phone: 1300 783 933 
Email: media@ses.vic.gov.au