Australia's leading weather authority, the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) have predicted that the rest of winter and the first few months will be wetter then usual, bringing with it an increased risk of flooding for low lying communities in the Murrumbidgee.
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According to the BoM, the Indian Ocean Dipole is in a negative phase for the first time in five years, meaning that 'above average' levels of rain should be be expected in the coming months through to summer.
SES Operational Readiness Officer, Shane Hargraves said that river rises due to increased rainfall were already evident across the Murrumbidgee.
"We are seeing this in the hills where the dams are located and further down the stream" Mr Hargraves said.
"We expect to see more of this going forward due to the current weather predictions however we are working closely with BoM and Water NSW to ensure the impact on people in low lying communities and on floodplains is minimised."
To prepare for potential flooding events the SES works closely with Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) and local councils to mitigate risks before they arise.
Deputy Commander at the Griffith SES Unit Tim Laidler said that staying flood smart was key to staying flood safe.
"Our message consistently from the SES is not to go into flood waters or any water where you cannot see the bottom" Mr Laidler said.
"There is no way to tell the depth, nor how strong the current may be or what hazards are hidden by the water.
It is just dangerous behavior, be practical and be safe."
He also noted that having a flood evacuation plan was of critical importance, especially for residents who live in low lying areas near the Murrumbidgee River or close by the canals surrounding Griffith.
"Know what to take with you, where you want to evacuate to and how you are planning on getting there" Mr Laidler said.
"Don't delay yourself because you are not ready."
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MI actively monitor the water levels of the Murrumbidgee River and canals surrounding Griffith to ensure water does no overlap, with the canals last spilling back in 2012.
To mitigate this risk and as the local flood management authority, Griffith City Council were able to successfully lobbied the state and federal governments for $1.2m in funding to upgrade the East Mirool Regulator in Yenda.
Peter Duncan, Communications Officer from MI said that MI maintains these gates to protect the community from any future flooding events.
At the time, Mayor John Dal Broi said the gates would significantly improve control of water flows and quicker recovery in case of flooding.
However Mr Laidler said it was still important to be flood safe, especially with increased rainfall and wetter than average weather predicted for the months ahead.
"Flooding is always possible so it's important to stay vigilant during wet weather and be aware" Mr Laidler said.
If you need assistance with evacuating flood waters, protecting your property from water damage or just need some extra assistance you can call the Griffith SES unit on 132 500.
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