Alyssa Fritzlaff
WET weather is on its way to the Latrobe Valley.
The Bureau of Meteorology this morning issued a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall for people in East, West and South Gippsland, along with parts of the North East.
A deep low pressure system over South Australia will approach northern Victoria today before crossing northeastern Victoria during Friday.
The BOM says heavy rainfall, which may lead to flash flooding, may develop during the early hours of Friday morning before continuing throughout the day.
24 hour rainfall totals of 25-50mm are likely across the warning area, with some falls of 50-80mm possible across the Gippsland high country and adjacent coast.
Locations which may be affected include Morwell, Traralgon, Sale, Moe, Bairnsdale and Orbost.
A flood watch was issued at noon for the Latrobe River.
Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) are asking people to remain vigilant during this time and practice common sense.
VICSES Chief Officer Operation Tim Wiebusch reminded Victorians to say safe.
“If you don’t need to be outside, don’t be outside. If you’re on the road take all necessary care, drive to conditions, beware of trees; if you need our assistance call 132 500; if it’s life-threatening call Triple Zero.”
“Never enter floodwater. Remember, it can take just 15cm of floodwater for a small car to float, or lose traction,” he said.
Mr Wiebusch said Victorians should keep up to date with relevant emergency information by visiting the VicEmergency website or downloading the app.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
- If driving conditions are dangerous, safely pull over away from trees, drains, low-lying areas and floodwater. Avoid travel if possible.
- Stay safe by avoiding dangerous hazards, such as floodwater, mud, debris, damaged roads and fallen trees.
- Be aware – heat, fire or recent storms may make trees unstable and more likely to fall when it’s windy or wet.
- Check that loose items, such as outdoor settings, umbrellas and trampolines are safely secured. Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
- Stay indoors and away from windows.
- If outdoors, move to a safe place indoors. Stay away from trees, drains, gutters, creeks and waterways.
- Stay away from fallen powerlines – always assume they are live.
- Be aware that in fire affected areas, rainfall run-off into waterways may contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks. Heavy rainfall may also increase the potential for landslides and debris across roads.
- Stay informed: Monitor weather warnings, forecasts and river levels at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency website/app/hotline.
