The regular update includes:
- catchment conditions
- forecast rainfall and inflows
- water releases
- planned management for the coming week.
Catchment conditions
For the week of 30 November to 6 December there was only light rainfall of mostly less than 15mm across the Basin which has helped with the further easing of soil moisture levels. Soil moisture value for the Upper Murray is now at 53% of capacity, which is the lowest it has been since July, but is still sitting in the top 10% of historical values for this time of year.
Forecast rainfall and inflows
The Bureau of Meteorology is expecting 7-day rainfall totals to 12 December 2022 to be in the range of 15 to 25mm across parts of the Upper Murray catchment. Possible showers are forecast today
7 December and again during Sunday into Monday as a low crosses south of Tasmania.
The 7-day forecast map is automatically generated and subject to change daily when the models are run.
The outlook for the 3 months from December to February indicates a slight chance of above-median rainfall.
The Bureau of Meteorology is the best source of information to stay up-to-date with forecast rainfall and flood information.
The status of the Bureau of Meteorology’s El Niño–Southern Oscillation Outlook is currently La Niña. The Bureau suggests this La Niña event may return to neutral conditions early in 2023. La Niña events increase the chances of above-average rainfall during spring and summer for northern and eastern Australia.
Snapshot: Dartmouth and Hume
Dartmouth Dam and Hume Dam this week
Flood operations are being conducted at both dams.
Following a period of dry weather and with no significant rain on the forecast, the level at Hume Dam will be gradually increased to the full supply level ahead of downstream demands overtaking inflows.
Inflows to Dartmouth Dam continue to recede and are now well below outflows. At this rate flow over the spillway are expected to cease next week.
The MDBA will continue to monitor rainfall forecasts closely, the situation is constantly evolving, and rivers can rise very quickly.
The MDBA does not provide flow forecasts during periods of flooding. For this information, please refer to the Bureau of Meteorology.
Are you flood ready?
If you live, work or holiday on a floodplain, be prepared
Develop your personalised flood emergency plan for your home and property
www.ses.nsw.gov.au
www.ses.vic.gov.au/plan-and-stay-safe
All residents can sign up for the Early Warning Network to be notified about Hume Dam release activities during periods of flooding or high releases
www.waternsw.com.au/supply/ewn
Check the BoM website to receive the latest weather and flood information and warnings in your area
www.bom.gov.au/australia/flood
www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings