Flood
Flooding can happen anywhere, at any time, and can be caused by more than just rain. Even if you don't live near a river or creek, different types of flooding may still happen in your area from other causes.
On this page
Flood Maps
Ballarat has a history of flooding which is mainly due to flash flooding after heavy rainfall. Other flooding is associated with rivers and creeks overflowing after prolonged rainfall.
The SES has developed Local Flood Guides to explain local flood risks for communities at risk. This includes advice on how to prepare and respond to a flood and who to contact in the event of a flood. SES has also developed Municipal Flood Emergency Plans to prepare, respond to and recover from flood events within the Municipality.
View the plan and guides on the Victorian State Emergency Services website.
Flood Hazards
Riverine flooding
In riverine flooding, relatively high water levels overtop the natural or artificial banks of a stream or river. The nature of riverine flooding can vary significantly in terms of cause, timing and depth between different locations. Coastal rivers with short, steep headwaters often have floods that rise and recede quickly. Inland floods with low gradients have floods that move slowly down the river, sometimes lasting for several months.
Flash flooding
Flash flooding occurs when soil absorption, runoff or drainage cannot adequately disperse intense rainfall, and is usually caused by slow-moving thunderstorms. Flash floods are generally defined as developing in six hours or less from rainfall to the onset of flooding.
Dam failure
Although dam failures are rare, their effects can be significant. In Victoria dam safety is monitored, and warning arrangements are in place to warn downstream residents of potential dam failure threats. Should a dam failure occur, significant downstream flooding can involve potentially swift flowing water and high amounts of debris
Preparing the home/business
All households and businesses at risk of flooding should develop an emergency plan and beware of their flood risk.
View the City of Ballarat flood risk website
For more information about preparing for and mitigating floods, visit the VicSES website