Flood survival guide released
THE Tarwin Valley has been recognised as an area at high risk of flooding, particularly around Tarwin Lower and Venus Bay.
A new flood guide has been produced for the area by the Victorian State Emergency Service (SES) to help people understand flooding, how it occurs and what to do in times of flood.
The Tarwin Valley was picked because of its above average risk of flooding, including riverine flooding, coastal storm surge flooding and flash flooding.
SES community resilience coordinator – east region Louise Haughton said prolonged rain over a number of days can cause the Tarwin River to rise and burst its banks.
“Areas downstream from Tarwin Lower, towards Venus Bay are more likely to experience storm surge flooding,” she said.
“Storm surge flooding is most likely in winter months, when the river is already higher due to rain and king tides are common.
“It is caused by prolonged south westerly or westerly winds that accompany cold fronts.”
Riverine flooding usually occurs in the spring or autumn.
Flash flooding occurs when rain falls faster than the ground can absorb it, which results in water rising rapidly and flowing quickly.
Mr Haughton said problems start to occur when the road is flooded and people ignore road closure signs.
“The river can actually change course slightly as it crosses the Inverloch-Venus Bay Road south of the Tarwin River bridge, near the fishing platforms,” she said.
“This area is incredibly dangerous for drivers as the river is flowing quickly and strong currents make turning around impossible.”
The Tarwin Valley Local Flood Guide highlights areas most likely to flood and where road closures would be put in place.
The guide was primarily produced for permanent residents of the area, however Ms Haughton said it was also vital for visitors.
“Many of the incidents in the area have involved visitors. Major flooding needs to be avoided and while locals tend to realise this, visitors can lack understanding,” she said.
Along the Tarwin River, flood gauges, or depth markers are not linked to the Bureau of Meteorology’s system.
Because of this, the flood guide can help people to understand how weather systems create flooding.
“Without the gauges, the bureau does not issue river height predictions for the Tarwin River. They only issue a flood watch,” Ms Haughton said.
“This means we could get anywhere from low level flooding to isolating floods.”
Because Venus Bay and Tarwin Lower can become isolated by flood waters, Ms Haughton said it was important for residents to be prepared.
The guide has information, maps, preparation advice and information on what to do during a flooding event.
It can be obtained as a hard copy by contacting 03 9256 9450, or as an electronic version by emailing [email protected] or going online at ses.vic.gov.au.
Flood safe: Louise Haughton of the State Emergency Service said the Tarwin Valley Local Flood Guide provides valuable information for people living in the area.
Short URL: /?p=13488
Posted by 
