Study to help council understand challenges and impacts of flooding

A NEW study will help Ballina Shire Council to prepare and withstand the challenges and impacts of future flood events.

The study will aim to understand the capacity of the stormwater network and identify areas where flooding occurs during high rainfall due to factors such as stormwater capacity.

Managing engineering works lead Paul Crozier said the work will help council incorporate effective mitigation strategies into its future plans.

“To enhance the accuracy of flood modelling across Ballina Shire, we are inviting the community to share descriptions and photos of observed overland flooding,” Mr Crozier said.

“This includes detailed accounts from the March 2022 flood event to help refine and calibrate the models. Information from other significant rainfall events is also valuable and welcomed.”

Current studies open for public consultation include the Ballina Island and West Ballina Local Stormwater Drainage Management Study and Stormwater Masterplan, along with Alstonville Overland Flood Study, Wardell Overland Flood Study and Lennox Head Overland Flood Study.

The studies are focused on overland flooding, which happens when heavy rain causes water to flow over the ground, usually because the drainage system can’t cope with the amount of water.

Overland flooding can happen in streets, yards, or low-lying areas where water builds up and can’t drain away quickly enough.

An online survey is open until December 20 with more information on the projects at www.yoursayballina.com.au/overland-flood-study.

The project is funded by Ballina Shire Council in partnership with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.