flood warning issued for Yarra Glen

Healesville - Koo Wee Rup Rd, Yellingbo. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Further flood watch warnings have been issued throughout the Yarra Valley.

The Major Flood Warning is being issued for the Yarra river from Coldstream to Warrandyte and for the Yarra River from Millgrove to Coldstream.

Major flooding is likely for the Yarra River at Yarra Glen on Friday evening, while minor flooding is developing downstream of Yarra Glen from Saturday.

Vic Emergency warns that Yarra Glen could be impacted anytime between 5.00pm and 7.00pm. If you are located in this area you are in danger – act now to protect yourself.

The Yarra River catchment has received rainfall averaging about 4mm in the Upper Yarra region and about 1mm in the Lower Yarra region since 9am Thursday 10 June 2021. Rainfall totals up to 5mm have been forecast for the catchment today (Friday 11 June 2021).

The level of the Yarra River at Yarra Glen is currently at the Moderate Flood Level of 4.60 metres, and rising. It is expected to peak around the Major Flood Level (5.00 metres) this evening. The estimated peak at Yarra Glen is likely to exceed the peak level of the February 2011 event (4.77 metres), which is the highest flood level recorded at this site to date.

What you should do:

Decide if you will evacuate if it becomes necessary.

If you need to leave your home because of flooding, follow your normal evacuation or relocation plans in a COVID safe way.

If you choose to leave:

Remember to take your pets, mobile phone, spare clothes and medications.

Travel to the home of family or friends who are in a safe location, away from flooding.

Be aware of any road closures when you leave.

If you are travelling:

Do not enter flooded areas. Turn around a find a safe alternative route.

Be aware of road hazards including mud, debris and damaged roads or bridges.

Floodwater is dangerous – never drive, walk or ride through floodwater.

If you stay or if it is unsafe to leave:

Make sure you have enough food, drinking water, medications and pet food to survive for 3-5 days in case you become isolated.

Use plugs, sandbags or household items to block toilets, sinks and drains to stop sewerage backflow.

You should stay informed by listening to emergency broadcasters and monitoring warnings.

Emergency Services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.

Impacts in your area:

Melba Highway is currently closed at Yering.

Water over the road is possible on the

Healesville Yarra Glen Road

Bell Street Yarra View Road

McMelkans Road, Yering

Macintyre Lane, Yering

Victoria Road, Yering

The next update is expected by 11/06/2021 05:30 pm or as the situation changes.

Flood information:

For river heights check www.bom.gov.au or phone 1300 659 217.

For urgent animal welfare issues phone Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or your local vet.

Emergency contacts:

For life threatening emergencies phone Triple Zero (000).

For flood and storm emergency assistance from the SES phone 132 500.

Stay informed:

Go to www.emergency.vic.gov.au.