23 Mar 2023 | 01:01 AM UTC
Australia: Adverse weather forecast across central and western Victoria through at least March 23
Adverse weather forecast across central and western Victoria, Australia, through March 23. Possible flooding and disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding are forecast across parts of central and western Victoria through at least March 23. Severe thunderstorms over western and central Victoria are tracking towards the northeast through March 23. As of early March 23, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for heavy rainfall and damaging winds for parts of North Central, Central, South West, Northern Country, North East, West and South Gippsland, and Wimmera forecast districts. Locations that may be affected include Bendigo, Shepparton, Seymour, Maryborough, Ballarat, and Bacchus Marsh. Severe thunderstorms could produce heavy rainfall, leading to dangerous and life-threatening flooding.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites. Electricity and telecommunications service disruptions are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
