Local Navigation Warning

Port of Snowy River

Location: Snowy River

DATE:  28 October 2022  DETAILS: Mariners are advised that recent heavy rainfall the upper river catchments of the Snowy River system has caused moderate and major flooding. River levels have now peaked across all locations and levels are expected to continue falling during Thursday.  Further shower and thunderstorm activity is expected during Thursday, however rainfall totals are not expected to impact current flood levels. 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:  Australia’s official weather forecasts & weather radar – Bureau of Meteorology (bom.gov.au) For information on scheduled water releases from Jindabyne Dam, go to:  https://water.dpie.nsw.gov.au/news/planned-snowy-environmental-flows-superceeded-by-flood-mitigation-releases Gippsland Ports also recommends downloading the VicEmergency App. 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. Gippsland Ports strongly advises against the operation of vessels in flood affected waters or driving vehicles through flood water. Please contact Gippsland Ports on 0351 500 500 to report navigation hazards. Mariners are advised that floodwaters from the catchment areas of the river and estuary systems can only exit through the ocean entrance bars.  Floodwater increases the velocity of the flow of the ebb tide in the navigable channels and causes heightened safety risk when attempting Bar crossings. IF IN DOUBT, DON’T GO OUT. Vessel owners and operators should also ensure that berthed or moored vessels are watertight, properly secured and regularly check mooring lines and swing mooring cables.