Types of floods:
In riverine flooding, relatively high water levels overflow above the banks of a stream or river. Depending on the local landscape, some floods may pass quickly, while others will move slowly down a river, sometimes lasting for several months.
Flash flooding is caused by heavy rain over a short period of time and is generally defined as developing in six hours or less from rainfall to the onset of flooding.
Flash flooding can sometimes cause storm water drains to overload leaving the water with nowhere to go.
Floods can have significant impacts and consequences such as:
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Loss of life
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Damage to homes or businesses
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Loss of crops, livestock, hay and fodder
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Damage to bridges, roads, buildings and fences
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Damage to pumps and machinery.
A well-prepared community can reduce the impact of flooding by up to 80%. People who are prepared are more likely to respond to floods appropriately and safely.
There are a number of things that you can do to make sure you stay safe during flooding. View the preparing for floods tab for more information.
Types of flood warnings:
Flood Watches and Flood Warnings are issued by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) to tell people about possible flooding.
A Flood Watch means there is there is a developing weather pattern that might cause floods in one or two days.
A Flood Warning means flooding is about to happen or is already happening. Flood Warnings are classified as Minor, Moderate and Major depending on the expected size and impact of the flood. The Victoria State Emergency Service will provide information about how the floodwater at those warning levels might affect people and properties, and these warnings will be issued via VicEmergency.
Find out more about types of floods here: ses.vic.gov.au/know-your-hazards/flood
Severe Weather Warnings or Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued when heavy rainfall that could lead to flash flooding is expected. Flash flooding happens quickly. There may be little or no warning. The arrival time and depth of a flash flood cannot usually be predicted.
Remember that you may not receive any official warning. If you think you are at risk, do not wait for an official warning to act.
