Senior Director of River Management at MDBA Joe Davis explained that the current releases at Doctors Point, downstream of Hume Dam, are at channel capacity.
However, with last week’s rainfall and inflow forecasts, releases would be further increased.
"At present, releases from Hume Dam are aimed at reaching 25,000 megalitres per day at Doctors Point, but there is the potential to safely increase it to approximately 32,000 megalitres per day in the coming days to create more airspace ahead of predicted rainfall," he said late last week.
"Adjusting release volumes in this manner is a routine and effective measure for the MDBA to manage flood risk while fulfilling our primary responsibility of ensuring the safety of the dam."
As water flows from the releases and inflows, river levels downstream of Hume Dam are expected to rise in certain areas.
The MDBA is urging communities living downstream of the dams to remain prepared for potential flooding. They recommend staying updated on weather information and river conditions through the Bureau of Meteorology and State Emergency Service websites.
Currently, Hume and Dartmouth dams are at 97% capacity, making airspace releases crucial to prevent future flooding in the Murray–Darling Basin. The MDBA operates Hume Dam in compliance with regulations set by state governments, prioritizing dam safety, water capture, and flood mitigation.
Although wet weather is typical for this time of year, the Bureau of Meteorology predicts a drier outlook for the winter season. Updates on the release volumes will take into account the impact of rainfall on expected inflows.
The New South Wales State Emergency Service (NSW SES) issued a Flood Watch for minor flooding along the Murray River downstream of Hume Dam to Corowa last week.
Residents in low-lying areas along the Murray River downstream of Hume Dam to Corowa are urged to stay informed about the predicted near minor flooding. The current water level at Corowa stands above 4.8 meters.
To stay informed about the current conditions, residents and stakeholders can visit the following websites:
•Murray-Darling Basin Authority: www.riverdata.mdba.gov.au/system-view
•Bureau of Meteorology: www.bom.gov.au
•New South Wales State Emergency Service (NSW SES): www.ses.nsw.gov.au
Victorian State Emergency Service (VIC SES): www.ses.vic.gov.au
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