Dam levels in south east Queensland

Minister for Water Supply Mark Bailey has been assured by Seqwater that South East Queensland’s dam levels are being closely monitored as rain falls across the region.

 Mr Bailey said the latest advice from Seqwater is that rainfall over the last few hours means controlled gated dam releases are required from Wivenhoe, Somerset and North Pine dams tonight.

“I understand Seqwater is already releasing water from Somerset Dam into Wivenhoe Dam to manage inflows, and that this is necessary to balance storage levels across both dams as part of normal operational procedures,” he said.

“Seqwater has advised that, although both flood storage compartments of Wivenhoe and Somerset dams are available, high inflows mean that controlled releases are now required.

“I’m advised impacts are only expected to relate to the closure of minor river crossings, with controlled releases expected to occur over the next few days.

“Based on Seqwater’s advice that 11 un-gated dams are spilling, people should take the utmost care downstream of these dams. Remember, if it’s flooded, forget it.

“I’ve been assured that Seqwater flood engineers maintain a 24/7 watching brief of all dams across the region.

“Their job is to monitor dam levels in association with rainfall forecast and the potential consequences of inflows into South East Queensland’s dams.”

Seqwater’s Flood Operations Centre was mobilised earlier this afternoon.

Mr Bailey said residents should also consider information available from other agencies, including local councils for road closures, and the Bureau of Meteorology for weather forecasts.

South East Queensland residents can be alerted of gated dam releases or dams which are spilling by signing up to Seqwater’s free dam release notification service.

To register for Seqwater’s dam release notification service, visit www.seqwater.com.au/dam-release-information-service.

For the latest information on Seqwater dam levels, go towww.seqwater.com.au/water-supply/dam-levels.

Media Contact:   Minister’s Office   3719 7316