Macedon Ranges residents have been urged to prepare for flooding and damaging winds this week, with heavy rainfall expected from tomorrow.
In a statement, Emergency Management Victoria (EMV) said the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is forecasting peak rainfall totals of 60-100mm across much of Victoria.
Major flooding is possible on both the Campaspe and Loddon rivers.
“Communities in northern Victoria are most at risk of serious impacts, and residents should do everything they can to prepare,” EMV said.
At a severe weather media conference on Tuesday morning, BOM’s Kevin Parkyn said there would be a short term flash flooding risk as a result of the rainfall, before a longer term riverine flooding risk.
“It takes a while for some of those waters to find their way down Victoria’s river systems,” he said.
Mr Parkyn said residents should brace for strong winds.
“We’re concerned about damaging wind gusts affecting elevated locations, extending from the Grampians through the central highlands, which includes the Macedon Ranges, maybe the Yarra Ranges, and certainly the alpine peaks,” he said.
EMV deputy commissioner Chris Stephenson urged communities to get ready ahead of time.
“While emergency services work hard to support everyone, it’s important for communities to be prepared by ensuring they have enough supplies for the first 72 hours following an emergency,” he said.
“Our volunteers and staff will do everything they can to support and assist communities, but preparing for emergencies is a shared responsibility and it’s important that communities do their part too.
“This will assist our staff and volunteers to focus their efforts on where it’s needed most.”
Victorian State Emergency Service (SES) chief operations officer Tim Wiebusch advised residents to avoid travelling on Thursday if possible.
“Large areas of flash flooding is expected on Thursday and then the possibility of major riverine flooding in multiple catchments. Please do not attempt to drive through flood water,” he said.
“It’s important to understand your flood risk. Find local flood guides for your area on the VICSES website.”
