News

Low level flooding hits Murray region

By Contributed

Jul 5, 2023

Potential flooding: NSW SES sent out an alert today, as low level flooding is likely to hit the region. Photo by Dan Hughes

NSW SES sent out an alert today, telling residents from Tocumwal to Moama to stay informed, as low level flooding is predicted to hit the region.

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Floodwaters from the Murray River tributaries upstream of Barham combined with floodwaters from the local tributaries have caused minor flooding along the Murray River at Barham.

The Murray River at Barham is currently at 5.57 metres and rising slowly, above the minor flood level (5.50m).

The Murray River at Barham may reach around 5.70m later in the week.

The peak forecast at Barham will be provided once upstream peaks have been observed.

The SES is advising residents that some local roads may be closed or underwater and reminding people not to drive through floodwaters.

The SES advised people in the area to take the following precautions:

If you have a home and/or business emergency plan, review it now. Otherwise, have a conversation and plan for what you will do and take with you if you need to evacuate.
Consider the consequences of road and bridge closures and water over roads, and make alternate arrangements for work, children and travel.
Obey all signs about road closures and instructions from emergency services.
Never drive, walk, ride through, play or swim in floodwater — it is dangerous, toxic and may void your car insurance. If it’s flooded, forget it. Fines may apply.
Avoid storm drains and pipes, ditches, ravines, creeks and rivers.
People in areas likely to be impacted by flooding should raise their assets, including waste and chemical containers, above expected flood heights.
Share this information with family, friends, and neighbours and help others prepare where possible.
If you are likely to be isolated due to flooding, stock up on essential items now.
Farmers should consider moving pumps and farm equipment to higher ground.
Companion animals and livestock should be relocated to higher ground that will not become an island.

To stay up to date with the latest information, NSW SES advises the following:

Listen to your local ABC radio station which can be found at reception.abc.net.au

ABC Shepparton, ABC Mildura-Swan Hill, Radio EMFM 104.7, Edge 1025.
Follow the SES on social media @NSWSES or visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au
Learn about your risk at www.ses.nsw.gov.au/knowyourrisk/
Check latest weather, warnings, rainfall and river heights at www.bom.gov.au/nsw/
Check road closures at livetraffic.com.au or 132 701 or your local council.

For emergency help in floods, storms and tsunamis, call the NSW State Emergency Service on 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000 immediately.