Minor Flood Warning Issued for Avoca River at Charlton Town

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued an initial Minor Flood Warning (IDV36820) for the Avoca River. This warning is in response to forecast rainfall that is expected to cause significant river level rises. This alert is issued alongside a current Flood Watch for parts of Central, North West, and South West Victoria, and a Severe Weather Warning for heavy, locally intense rainfall.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically affects the following regions in Victoria:

• Avoca River at Charlton Town
• Avoca River reach to Charlton Town

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers in the affected areas should adhere to the following safety advice:

• Do not drive, walk, swim, or play in floodwater; it is dangerous and conditions can change quickly.
• Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams, and other waterways.
• Obey all road closure signs and plan travel to avoid flooded roads.
• Monitor local media and the ABC for updates.
• For emergency assistance from the SES, call 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately.

Expected Conditions

Widespread moderate to heavy rainfall with embedded thunderstorms is forecast to develop Sunday and continue into Monday. As of 3:00 PM Sunday, the Avoca River at Charlton Town was measured at 2.63 meters and steady. With the forecast rainfall, the river is expected to reach the minor flood level of 4.00 meters by Monday evening. Higher levels are possible depending on the actual rainfall totals.

Timeline

• Warning Issued: 3:56 PM AEDT, Sunday, March 1, 2026.
• River Rises: Expected to begin Monday morning, March 2.
• Minor Flooding: Forecast to reach Charlton Town by Monday evening.
• Next Update: The Bureau of Meteorology will issue the next warning by 12:00 PM AEDT on Monday, March 2, 2026.