The study investigated how heavy rainfall and runoff behaved in and around Moama during significant storm events, including those experienced in January 2024 and October 2022.
The final draft identifies overland flow flood risks through hydraulic modelling validated against recent events.
It also provides updated technical information to support future planning, development controls and emergency management.
Mayor John Harvie said the study would help council and the community better understand and manage localised flood risks.
“While we’re familiar with flood risks from the Murray River, Moama is also vulnerable to major overland flow,” he said.
“This occurs when intense local rainfall creates runoff that moves through the township towards the river. By modelling these events, we can identify risk areas and plan for improvements in drainage and stormwater management.”
Cr Harvie said councils had a responsibility to understand and manage flood risks within urban areas, with the study representing the first detailed hydraulic modelling project specifically focused on Moama’s overland flow flooding.
“The study provides important information that will help guide future flood risk planning, community awareness, emergency management and strategic urban growth,” he said.
“This helps us to ensure flood risks are properly understood and managed, so we are encouraging the local community to view the final draft and offer feedback where necessary prior to final adoption.”
This study is supported by the State Floodplain Management Program, managed by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water.
The draft Moama Major Overland Flow Flood Study can be found at yoursay.murrayriver.nsw.gov.au
Submissions close June 28.
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