Please be aware that Council is undertaking an opening of the Anglesea River and Painkalac Creek estuaries today, December 21, 2020.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting widespread rainfall, including for the Painkalac catchment, from this evening through to Tuesday morning with totals of around 20-40mm and localised falls of 60-80mm possible. Thunderstorms are also possible overnight, further enhancing rainfall totals and rainfall rates.
With the reservoir close to capacity, and the estuary mouth closed, we anticipate a rapid rise in the estuary levels overnight and into tomorrow.
Under these circumstances, urgent action is required to avoid localised flooding of Aireys Inlet roads and houses. Therefore, this afternoon Council is taking emergency action to remove sand at the estuary mouth to enable any potential flood water to pass through the estuary to the sea.
The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CCMA) has arranged with Barwon Water for a flow from the reservoir for the next three days to mitigate risk and support the mouth opening if natural flows do not occur as expected.
When the opening is taking place, heavy machinery will be present on the beach and the work area will be fenced off to exclude access. We have signs and officers on site during the opening to assist with community safety and information.
