Victorians should expect a possibly drier winter with warmer conditions, but heavy rainfall could still occur, according to Emergency Management Victoria (EMV).
Expected reduced rainfall and above-average temperatures over the next three months could result in drier than average soil by late winter, when El Niño conditions are anticipated to develop.
EMV is warning residents however that the winter-to-early-spring period may see the development of east coast lows, with the chance of localised heavy rainfall and damaging winds across eastern parts of Victoria.
Victoria’s SES chief officer Tim Wiebusch said that the time for Victorians to prepare for future flooding was now.
“As we come out of autumn and enter a period of drier than average conditions with a reduced flood risk, it is important for Victorians to take the time now, and prepare themselves and their properties, as the risk of severe storms and localised flooding can occur during winter including development of east coast lows,” he said.
Acting emergency management commissioner Amanda Leck said emergency service personnel were ready to respond at a moment’s notice.
“Victoria’s emergency management sector continues to undertake exercising to ensure that emergency management personnel are prepared for all emergencies to keep the Victorian community safe,” she said.
Victoria is currently at El Niño Watch status
.