Menindee releases create storage space for upstream flood

On current modelling WaterNSW is expecting at least a further 1700-2000 GL to arrive between now and the end of December, increasing the risk of flooding in the Menindee area and downstream.

WaterNSW maintained releases within the minor flood level from May to early October, successfully passing multiple large flow surges without impacting property, and has now generated 250 gigalitres (GL) of capacity within the lakes to receive increasing inflows.

The intention is to create and maintain this storage capacity now, to capture the higher peak later in December to help minimise downstream flooding impacts. Planning will focus on reducing the water being released from the lakes to coincide with high flows from the Talyawalka into the Lower Darling.

On current projections the peak flow rate expected at Wilcannia in coming weeks (~43 GL/day) would be among the highest in decades. The lakes have received almost 7,000 GL of inflow this year, representing the equivalent of four times the storage capacity of the lakes.

The lakes – which hold 1731 gigalitres (GL) at 100% - are currently 103% of storage capacity, having been surcharged above 100% since February due to high inflows resulting from the La Nina weather pattern.

WaterNSW has previously advised the community that releases would increase gradually from the main weir to eventually target 9.6 metres at Menindee and a flow rate of about 32 GL/day at Weir 32.

As the water levels continue to rise above the moderate flood level, under the State Flood Plan, the Bureau of Meteorology is responsible for providing information of river heights and flood warnings, while the NSW State Emergency Service is the lead flood response agency.

More information:

• Register for the Early Warning Network (EWN)
• Visit WaterInsights for dam levels and releases
• View the BoM website for weather and flood updates
• For emergency information, contact the NSW SES or phone 132 500