03 Oct 2023 | 03:13 AM UTC
Australia: Adverse weather forecast across Australian Capital Territory, southeastern New South Wales, and eastern Victoria through at least Oct. 5
Adverse weather forecast across southeastern Australia through Oct. 5. Flooding and disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding are forecast across parts of the Australian Capital Territory, southeastern New South Wales, and eastern Victoria through at least Oct. 5. Heavy rain is likely over the ranges and Gippsland in Victoria the afternoon of Oct. 3 before extending northwards to northeastern Victoria from the evening of Oct. 3. A low-pressure system is forecast to develop over southern New South Wales Oct. 4-5. Severe thunderstorms could produce heavy rainfall, leading to dangerous and life-threatening flooding.
As of Oct. 3, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued severe weather warnings for heavy rainfall and damaging winds for parts of the Australian Capital Territory, Snowy Mountains, South Coast, South West Slopes, Riverina, and Southern Tablelands forecast districts in New South Wales, and East Gippsland, North East, West and South Gippsland, Central, Northern Country, and North Central forecast districts in Victoria. A flood watch is in place for the Upper Murray, Mitta Mitta, and Snowy rivers, and the Murray River to Tocumwal in New South Wales and eastern Victoria. Wind warnings are in effect for much of the affected area. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
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 heavy rain has saturated the soil.
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 possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.
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.
