Local Flood Guide Safe Casey

Flood information for the

The City of Casey

Supported by Your local emergency broadcasters are:

■■ ABC 774 AM ■■ 3AW 693 AM ■■ FOX 101.9 FM ■■ .3 FM ■■ SEN 1116 AM

Local Flood Information Flood Local ■■ Triple M 105.1 FM ■■ Casey Radio 97.7 FM ■■ SKY NEWS Television

City of Casey Contact details:

Phone: (03) 9705 5200 Email: [email protected] Web: www.casey.vic.gov.au

The map above shows the impact of a 1% flood in Casey. A 1% flood means that there is a 1% chance of a flood up to this size happening in any given year.

2 Local Flood Guide Your Local Flood Information Know your risk The Casey Local Area

The City of Casey is 45 kilometres to the South East of Melbourne’s Central Business District between the Dandenong Ranges and Westernport Bay. It covers 410 square kilometres and has a population of over 270,000. The City of Casey includes the suburbs of Beaconsfield, Berwick, Blind Bight, Botanic Ridge, Cannons Creek, Clyde, Clyde North, Cranbourne, Cranbourne East, Cranbourne Local Flood Information Flood Local North, Cranbourne South, Cranbourne West, Devon Meadows, Doveton, Eumemmerring, Endeavour Hills, Five Ways, Fountain Gate, Harkaway, Hallam, Hampton Park, Junction Village, Lynbrook, Lyndhurst, Lysterfield South, Narre Warren, Narre Warren North, Narre Warren South, Pearcedale, Tooradin and Warneet.

The City of Casey is also home to large areas of farmland in Devon Meadows, Clyde, Pearcedale, Cranbourne South, Five Ways and Junction Village. Horse training and racing is a significant industry within the municipality with Cranbourne being one of the largest training areas in Melbourne. The City of Casey is home to 19,500 businesses including retail, industrial/wholesale, home based businesses, agriculture as well as many others.

There are many areas within the City of Casey at risk of flooding, both riverine (from the rivers and creeks) and flash flooding. The City of Casey has three major waterways, Dandenong Creek, Eumemmerring Creek and Cardinia Creek. Are you at risk of flood?

There are many areas within the City of Casey at risk of flooding. The City of Casey is prone to flash flooding caused by heavy rainfall. Flash flooding can occur across the entire municipality. Any property on the low side of a street or a neighbouring property may be at risk of flooding.

There is also a risk of flash flooding from the major drainage lines in Casey. The map on page 2 shows the expected flood extents from the main drainage lines when there is a major flood in Casey. However areas outside the blue area on the map are still at the risk of flash flooding.

Over 16 floods have been recorded in the area over the past 100 years, with the first recorded in December 1934 and the most recent in July 2012. Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road, February 2011

In 2010, 2011 and 2012, floods in the City of Casey resulted in road closures, damage to public and private property and rehousing of Did you know? people and animals. On 4 February 2011, 180 millimetres of rain In 2011, a severe storm with heavy rainfall over the City of Casey fell at Lynbrook over a 24 hour period. During floods, a number of caused heavy flash flooding across the municipality. During this essential services are at risk in the City of Casey, including: storm: ■ The Main Arterial Roads may be closed for some time until the ■ Over 600 residential households, 10 aged care facilities flood waters recede. The following roads have been closed ■■ and many businesses were significantly impacted by the in previous flood events: Heatherton Road, , floodwater. Many of these properties were not within the blue Hallam South Road, Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road, South areas shown on the map on page 2. Gippsland Highway and Clyde Road. ■ 103 properties sustained such heavy damage through ■ The Pakenham Train Line may be closed due to floodwater ■ ■ flooding that residents were either evacuated or relocated. at multiple points in Hallam and Narre Warren including immediately east of Narre Warren Train Station. ■■ Hampton Park Shopping Centre was flooded. ■■ Access to Casey Hospital may be restricted to four wheel drive ■■ A number of roads were closed to traffic for some days these vehicles and trucks for a period due to overland flows along included Narre Warren – Cranbourne Road, Shrives Road, Kangan Drive in a flash flood. Heatherton Road, Pound Road, Centre Road, Webb Street and the Princes Highway. ■■ The Cranbourne Train Line between Merinda Park and Cranbourne Stations is also at risk of flooding during heavy rain. The SES received over 735 requests for assistance from City of Casey residents. A number of people also required rescue assistance due to the floodwater. Even if your property is not affected by floodwater, you may be impacted indirectly by flooding as some roads and train lines will Never drive, ride, walk or swim in floodwater- you don’t know be closed and power, sewerage and telephone services may be what you’re getting into. disrupted.

Local Flood Guide 3 About Flood Warnings

What warnings mean Flash flooding occurs because rain falls faster than the ground has the ability to absorb, causing water run-off into low-lying Flood Watches and Flood Warnings are issued by the Bureau of areas and into local drainage systems unable to cope with the Meteorology (BoM) to tell people about possible flooding. volume of water. This results in water rising rapidly and flowing

About About Warnings Flood powerfully and quickly. A Flood Watch means there is a developing weather pattern that might cause floods in one or two days. Flash flooding:

Flood Warnings mean flooding is about to happen or is already ■■ Occurs so fast that it is often difficult to provide a detailed happening. There are Minor, Moderate and Major flood warnings. warning. Often it arrives without warning. ■■ Usually results from heavy rainfall falling during severe A Minor Flood Warning means floodwater can: storms over a short time.

■■ Reach the top of the river banks Remember, you may not receive any official warning. ■■ Come up through drains in nearby streets Be aware of what is happening around you to stay safe. ■■ Cover low-lying areas including riverside camping areas Never wait for a warning to act. ■■ Affect some low-lying caravan parks ■■ Cover minor roads, tracks and low level bridges ■■ Spread across land or go into buildings on some properties Emergency Alert and farms. SES may provide alerts to the City of Casey community through the Emergency Alert telephone warning system. All Emergency A Moderate Flood Warning means floodwater can: Services can use Emergency Alert to warn communities about dangerous situations by voice message to landline telephones or ■■ Spill over river banks and spread across low-lying areas text message to mobile phones. ■■ Start to threaten buildings, roads, rail, power and other developments If you receive an Emergency Alert, make sure that all family members, people at work and your neighbours are aware of the ■ Require evacuation in some areas ■ situation. ■■ Cover main roads. If you receive an Emergency Alert you should pay attention A Major Flood Warning means floodwater can: and act. It could mean life or death.

■ Cause widespread flooding ■ Flood Warnings for the City of Casey ■■ Threaten many houses and businesses ■■ Cause properties and whole areas to be isolated by water Flash flooding is caused by intense rainfall over a short period ■■ Disrupt major roads and transport routes of time. If you hear a severe storm warning with flash flooding ■■ Require many evacuations. predicted make sure you are prepared. As flash flooding happens so quickly, there may be little or no warning as the arrival time or depth of a flash flood is unpredictable. The Victoria State Emergency Service (SES) will give information about how the floodwater might affect people and properties. During flash flooding, heavy rain deposits a large amount of water This includes safety messages to remind you what to do. over a small area in a short time period, causing localised flooding that can rise rapidly in a matter of minutes. Flash flooding may Severe Thunderstorm Warnings not be deep but is fast flowing and dangerous. NEVER walk, ride, Thunderstorms are classified as severe, due to their potential to drive, swim or play in floodwater. cause significant localised damage through: wind gusts, large hail, tornadoes or flash flooding. Severe thunderstorm warnings are Severe storm warnings and flood warnings are issued by the issued to the community by the Bureau of Meteorology. Bureau of Meteorology. Severe Weather Warnings These warnings are issued to the community by the Bureau of Meteorology when severe weather is expected that is not directly related to severe thunderstorms or bushfires. Examples of severe weather include damaging winds and flash flooding.

Listen to Severe Thunderstorm and Severe Weather warnings for your area. If you hear a warning, check the Bureau of Meteorology and Victoria State Emergency Service for information and advice.

4 Local Flood Guide Preparing for Floods Prepare a plan NOW - before a flood Your Emergency Plan

■■ Check if your home or business is subject to flooding. Emergencies can happen at any time, with little warning. People who have planned and prepared for emergencies have ■■ Check if you could be cut off by floodwater. reduced the impact and recovered faster. Preparing For Floods For Preparing ■■ Know the safest way to go if you decide to leave your property and plan an alternative route. Taking the time to think about emergencies and make your own plan helps you think clearly and have more control to make better ■■ Check your insurance policies as many properties, equipment decisions when an emergency occurs. and businesses are not covered for flood damage. ■■ Keep a list of emergency numbers near the telephone. Your Emergency Plan should identify: ■■ Develop an Emergency Plan. ■■ The types of emergencies that might affect you. ■■ Put together an Emergency Kit. ■■ How those emergencies might affect you. ■■ What you will do before, during and after an emergency. When a flood is likely ■■ Where to get more information. ■■ Take action. Follow your Emergency Plan. ■■ Where you will go if you evacuate and the best way to go in different circumstances. ■■ Listen to your radio for information and advice. ■■ A list of phone numbers you will need, including emergency ■■ Check your neighbours are safe and know about the flood. services, your insurance company, friends and family. ■■ Stack possessions on benches and tables with electrical goods in the highest places. ■■ Anchor objects that are likely to float and cause damage. ■■ Move rubbish bins, chemicals and poisons to the highest place. ■■ Move pumps, machinery and livestock to higher ground. ■■ Put important papers, valuables, photos and other special personal items into your Emergency Kit. ■■ Business owners should raise stock, business records and equipment onto benches and tables. ■■ If you are likely to be isolated, have enough food, drinking water, medicine, fuel and other needs to last at least three days. ■■ Do not forget pet food and stock feed.

Evacuation

Victoria Police is responsible for coordinating an evacuation Visit www.ses.vic.gov.au to obtain a copy of your in an emergency. During a flood, Police, SES and other Home Emergency Plan workbook emergency services may advise you to evacuate to keep you safe. It is important that you follow this advice.

There are two types of evacuation notices that may be issued via your emergency broadcaster during a flood: ■■ Prepare to evacuate - means you should act quickly and take immediate action to protect your life and property. ■■ Evacuate immediately - you must leave immediately as there is a risk to lives and properties.

Remember you can leave at any time if you feel unsafe. You do not need to wait to be told to evacuate.

Local Flood Guide 5 Emergency Kit Every home and business should have a basic emergency kit:

Home Emergency Kit Copy of your Emergency Plan Radio Torch Spare batteries Copy of documents & records

Long life food First aid kit 3 days supply 3 days

Safe drinking water Gloves 3 days supply 3 days

Check your kit often. Make sure things work. Replace out of date items. When a warning is issued, have ready for use or pack into your kit: Mobile phone and charger Prescriptions & medicines Pet needs Strong shoes Clothes for your family 3 days supply 3 days supply 3 days

I need to add: Write your list here. Tick items as you pack them into your kit. Special needs Photos Family Keepsakes Valuables Documents Other

6 Local Flood Guide During and After a Flood During a flood After a flood

When flooding has begun: Flood dangers do not end when the water begins to fall. To make sure you stay safe: ■ Never drive, ride, swim or walk through floodwater. ■ During a Flood and After ■ Keep listening to local emergency broadcasters. ■■ Floodwater can be deep and damage roads and bridges. ■ ■■ Do not return home until advised that it is safe. ■■ Do not let your children play or swim in floodwater. It is dirty, dangerous and deadly. Once you return to your home: ■■ Tune in to your emergency broadcasters: ABC Local Radio, Commercial Radio Stations, designated ■■ Drink bottled water or boil all drinking water until advised that Stations and SKY NEWS Television. the water supply is safe. ■■ In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero). ■■ Throw away any food or medicines that may have been in contact with floodwater or affected by power outages. ■■ For emergency help from the SES in floods and storms call 132 500. ■■ When entering the building, use a torch to light your way - never use matches, cigarette lighters or any other flame as ■ Stay away from all waterways including drains and culverts. ■ there may be gas inside. ■ Stay away from fallen power lines – electricity travels easily ■ Keep the electricity and gas off until checked and tested by a through water. ■■ professional. ■ Be aware that animals, snakes, rats, spiders and other pests ■ Take photographs of all damage for insurance. may be on the move during a flood - they can come into ■■ houses and other buildings or hide around sandbags. ■■ Clean your home straight away to stay healthy. ■■ Keep in contact with neighbours. ■■ Be prepared to leave early. How SES helps the community

The Victoria State Emergency Service (SES) is a volunteer based When you leave early or evacuate: emergency service. Although our SES volunteers attempt to reach everyone prior to or during an emergency, at times this is ■■ Leaving early is always the safest option, leave well before not possible. Therefore it is advisable for you to be prepared for roads are closed by floodwater. emergencies so that you can share responsibility for your own ■■ Take your emergency kit and three days supply of clothing wellbeing during those times. In a flood, SES assistance may with you. include: ■■ Turn off the electricity, gas and water as you leave. ■■ Giving flood advice ■■ Take your pets with you. Do not leave them behind. Dogs ■■ Protecting essential services should be muzzled. ■■ Helping to protect infrastructure ■■ Go to a relief centre or to stay with friends or family in higher ■■ Rescuing people from floodwater areas. ■■ Advising of an evacuation. If evacuated, Relief Centres can help you with: To assist your preparation, it is recommended that you obtain a ■■ Temporary accommodation copy of a SES Home Emergency Plan by visiting ■■ Financial help www.ses.vic.gov.au. ■■ Personal support ■■ Drinks and meals ■■ Basic clothing and personal needs ■■ Help to contact family and friends.

If you choose to shelter with a friend or relative, tell authorities where you are staying.

Local Flood Guide 7 Emergency Checklist Emergency Contacts NOW: Flood preparation Triple Zero Life threatening Emergency 000 Check if your insurance policies cover flooding. Police fire ambulance TTY106

Keep this list of emergency numbers near the telephone. Victoria State Emergency Service (SES)

Checklist and Contacts 132 500 Put together an Emergency Kit and prepare a home or business For flood / storm emergency calls Emergency Plan, see www.ses.vic.gov.au. SES Information Line 1300 842 737

When you hear a Flood Watch or weather warning Operates during major floods or storms 1300 VIC SES www.ses.vic.gov.au Move pumps, machinery, hay and livestock to higher ground. Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) Listen to severe weather warnings for flash flood. 1300 659 217 Weather Information, forecasts, warnings www.bom.gov.au Listen to radio and check the SES website for more information and advice. National Relay Service (NRS) www.relayservice.com.au Go over your Emergency Plan. Pack clothing and other extra The deaf, hearing or speech impaired can call SES or 000 using NRS: items into your Emergency Kit and take this with you if you Dial Then Ask For evacuate. ■■ Speak and Listen (SSR) users phone 1300 555 727 132 500 ■■ TTY / Voice users phone 13 36 77 132 500 When flooding may happen soon (a Flood Warning) Make sure your family members and neighbours are aware of Internet Relay users log into www.iprelay.com.au/call/ then enter: 132 500 or 000 what is happening.

Be ready to evacuate. Act early, conditions change rapidly, roads and escape routes can be covered or blocked. Don’t forget to VicRoads 13 11 70 Road closures and hazard reporting service www.vicroads.vic.gov.au take pets and your medicine with you.

Put household valuables and electrical items as high as possible. The City of Casey Turn off water, gas and electricity at the mains. Phone: (03) 9705 5200 Email: [email protected] Secure objects likely to float and cause damage. Raise Web: www.casey.vic.gov.au chemicals and oils well above the predicted flood height. NRS: 13 36 77 TIS: 13 14 50 During the flood EMPC-LFG-11.0 July 2013 Weather District: Central For emergency assistance, call 132 500 for SES. Catchment: Melbourne Water DO NOT drive, ride, swim or walk through floodwater. This is the The City of Casey operates a number of relief centres. Residents will be notified of their main cause of death during floods. closest centre at the time of the event. NEVER allow children to play in floodwater. This is the main ■■ ABC Melbourne 774 AM cause of death during floods for children and young people. Emergency Broadcasters ■■ 3AW 693 AM Emergency broadcasters include ABC Stay away from drains, culverts and waterways, water can flow ■ FOX 1019 FM Local Radio, designated commercial ■ quickly and have strong currents. radio stations across Victoria and SKY ■■ NOVA 100.3 FM Stay well clear of fallen trees, power lines and damaged NEWS Television. ■■ SEN 1116 AM buildings. ■■ More on page 2 After the flood: recovery Complete the following and keep this information handy close to the phone: If your property has been flooded, check with the City of Casey Your electricity supplier: for information and advice. Your gas supplier: Have all electrical and gas equipment professionally tested before use. Doctor: For more information visit: Vet: Insurance Policy Number: Phone Number: For the latest version of this publication visit www.ses.vic.gov.au visit www.ses.vic.gov.au of this publication version the latest For