Local Navigation Warning

Port of Gippsland Lakes and Snowy River

Location: River catchments

DATE:  13 November 2021 DETAILS: Mariners are advised that recent rainfall totals of around 80mm in the river catchments of the Gippsland Lakes and Snowy River systems has caused minor to moderate and in some cases major and localized flooding. The following Rivers have flood warnings;

• Mitchell and Avon Rivers – Major Flood Warnings
• Snowy River – Moderate Flood Warning
• Tambo and Nicholson Rivers – Minor Flood Warnings
• Latrobe and Thomson Rivers – Minor Flood Warnings
• Macalister River – Minor Flood Warning.

Gippsland Ports will monitor and check on River heights for further Warnings and Notices. In the meantime, Mariners are reminded that debris caused by flood water including large trees and timbers may find its way downstream and affect the safe navigation of vessels within the Gippsland Rivers and Lake systems. For information on weather and rising flood water levels go to; http://www.bom.gov.au/ Gippsland Ports recommends downloading the VicEmergency App. Gippsland Ports strongly advises against the operation of vessels in flood affected waters or driving vehicles through flood water. Mariners should take extra precaution if it is necessary to operate vessels in rivers and creeks following rain events and be aware of the possible presence of new debris hazards. Please contact Gippsland Ports on 0351 500 500 to report navigation hazards. For the Gippsland Lakes, Mariners are advised that floodwaters from the catchment areas of the entire lakes system can only exit through the ocean entrance to the Gippsland Lakes. Floodwater increases the velocity of the flow of the ebb tide in the navigable channels near Lakes Entrance and the Entrance Channel and causes heightened safety risk when attempting Bar crossings. Mariners are advised to expect higher than predicted tides throughout the Gippsland Lakes System. The flow of the ebb tide at its peak in the Entrance channel may exceed 6 knots at times. Vessel owners and operators should ensure that berthed or moored vessels are watertight, properly secured and regularly check mooring lines and swing mooring cables.