The MDBA is increasing release of water from Hume Dam to maintain airspace in response to updated inflow information.
As of 10:30 am, 23 September 2022, the MDBA will increase releases from Hume Dam to 41,000 megalitres a day. The increase in releases, combined with elevated inflows from the Kiewa River, will see the river rise at Albury.
The Bureau of Meteorology forecast that the height at Albury will exceed minor flood level (4.3 m) but remain below the moderate flood level over the coming days. If releases need to be increased significantly, this may be revised.
The Bureau of Meteorology is responsible for issuing flood warnings to the public. Please check www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings for up-to-date flood warnings in your area.
The MDBA remains focused on keeping the dam safe, and capturing flows where we can, to mitigate flooding.
If you live or work on a floodplain, please stay up to date on the latest weather information including warnings, river conditions and rainfall in your area via the Bureau of Meteorology’s website.
You are also encouraged to subscribe to WaterNSW's Early Warning Network to be notified via SMS, landline or email about dam releases during times of high releases and floods.
There are three things you can do to be prepared for potential floods:
Develop your personalised flood emergency plan for your home and property by going to the State Emergency Service website for your state.
www.ses.nsw.gov.au
www.ses.vic.gov.au/plan-and-stay-safe
Sign up, or check your details are up to date, for WaterNSW’s Early Warning Network to be notified by SMS, email or landline about dam activities during periods of flooding or high releases.
www.waternsw.com.au/supply/ewn
Check the Bureau of Meteorology to receive the latest weather information including warnings, river conditions and rainfall in your area
www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings
www.bom.gov.au/australia/flood
Background
Hume Dam’s primary purpose is water security – it plays a crucial role in managing flows and securing water along the Murray River, including to Adelaide.
The MDBA needs to fill Hume Dam before irrigation demands start to exceed inflows, and the level starts to drop. This ensures water allocations are maximised.
The MDBA operates the Hume Dam in accordance with the rules set by state governments. We always consider the latest weather information, recent inflows and catchment conditions when managing the dam.
When the dam fills, all flood waters will pass through the dam and head downstream along with the water entering from the tributaries such as the Kiewa River.
The Bureau of Meteorology is responsible for issuing flood warnings to the public. Check www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings for up-to-date flood warnings in your area.
For more information about how dams are managed to reduce the impact of flooding visit: How are dams being managed to reduce the impact of flooding? | Murray-Darling Basin Authority (mdba.gov.au)
ENDS