By Callum Ludwig and Tyler Wright
The Woori Yallock Creek bridge on Parslows Rd in Yellingbo was on the brink of flooding as water levels were above 2 metres on Wednesday 24 August.
With anywhere from 14 to 23mm of rain predicted to fall on Wednesday and Thursday 25 August, residents are advised to be aware of the danger of floodwaters.
Yellingbo CFA Captain Jeremy Hardy said it is being monitored as best as it can be.
“As well as residents avoiding the floodwater, if it does flood over, the brigade may have delayed getting out to any potential incidents because of the water. I’d also recommend caution driving, especially at night through any areas after all these rains,” he said.
“Try and stick to main roads like Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Rd and Warburton Highway, although these could also flood in places. It’s hard because the weather certainly damages the roads, and damage can be hard to see when roads are wet and there’s the possibility of trees falling due to the softer, wet grounds.”
Yellingbo CFA warned motorists to be careful on the road in a Facebook post, highlighting the strong current and water lapping at the side of the road.
A VICSES spokesperson said with a wetter than average spring predicted for most Victorians this year, now is the time to prepare.
“ Victorians should never be complacent when planning and preparing for the risk of fire and severe weather. Get ready before the rain falls. We know this spring is expected to be wetter than average, and that early preparation is the best defence against storms,” they said.
“VICSES continues to review its township-based local flood guides. There are now over 140 local guides available for at-risk flood townships. We strongly encourage members of the community to go to the VICSES interactive maps to look up their Local Flood Guides.”
The road could flood over by the afternoon and people are advised to find alternative routes home to avoid driving through floodwater.
The VICSES spokesperson said VICSES will continue to work closely with the emergency services sector to ensure the safety of Victorian communities.
“However as we continue to implement new and improved processes to better keep communities safe, we also ask Victorians to play their part and prepare in advance. If you ever come across floodwater, it’s vital you never enter it. It can take just 15cm of water for a small car to float or lose traction, it may be the last decision you ever make,” they said.
“Clean your gutters, downpipes and drains of any debris, to ensure they are not blocked. A community that is prepared helps us to make the best use of our resources, so we can best assist during adverse weather events.”
Residents can find out what else they can do to be ready for flood at www.ses.vic.gov.au/plan-and-stay-safe and call 132 500 for emergency storm and flood assistance from VICSES.
