Australia's leading weather authority, the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) have predicted that the rest of winter and the first few months of spring 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."
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According to Leeton Shire Council the March 2012 rain event proved to the region that large floods were indeed possible.
"Since then, council has been proactive in understanding and managing flood risks within the Shire through the development of a flood study" Tom Steele, Group Manager Operations at Council said.
"This study has assisted us to better manage future development and incrementally provide flood resilient infrastructure for the community."
To prepare for potential flooding events the SES works closely with Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) and local councils to mitigate risks before they arise.
"We are actively monitoring the situation and will be guided by advice from the SES and Bureau of Meteorology should matters at any stage escalate" Mr Steele said.
For emergency help in floods and storms, call the SES on 132 500.
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