Know Your Flood Risk

No two floods are the same. Flooding in Somerset varies depending on the amount, duration and location of rainfall across local catchments.

There are three main types of flooding experienced in the Somerset Region.

River Flooding

River flooding occurs when widespread and prolonged rainfall causes rivers and major waterways to rise and overflow. This type of flooding can affect towns, rural properties, transport routes and low‑lying floodplains.

The Brisbane River runs through the Somerset region and contains Somerset and Wivenhoe Dams.

Creek Flooding

Creek flooding occurs when intense rainfall falls over smaller catchments, causing creek levels to rise rapidly. Creek flooding often develops with little warning.

Overland Flow

Overland flow happens when heavy rainfall causes water to flow over land surfaces. This type of flooding can affect properties not located near rivers or creeks and usually occurs over a short period of time.

Flooding can rise very quickly during flash flooding events. Even shallow floodwater can be extremely dangerous.

Remember: Never enter floodwater.

Somerset Regional Council provides a number of tools to help residents understand the flood risk to their property.

Flood Awareness Mapping

Council has developed an online property‑specific Flood Certificate system using available flood modelling. Flood Certificates help residents better understand potential flood impacts for a specific address.

Where detailed flood modelling has not been completed, Council uses a whole-of-region limited flood study.

Important Disclaimer

Flood information is provided to assist residents in understanding potential flood risk. Somerset Regional Council makes no warranty or representation regarding the accuracy or completeness of this information.

Flood information and Flood Certificates are used entirely at the user’s risk.

When flooding is expected or already occurring in your area, early action is critical to protect life and reduce damage. Flood conditions can change quickly and may worsen without warning, particularly during heavy rainfall or dam releases.

If a flood warning is issued for your location, residents should take the following actions as soon as it is safe to do so:

Activate your Household Emergency Plan
Put your emergency plan into action and ensure all household members understand what to do. Review evacuation triggers, communication arrangements and care plans for pets, livestock and vulnerable family members. Click here to create your plan now.

Stay informed through official warnings and updates
Monitor warnings and advice from Somerset Regional Council, emergency services and the Bureau of Meteorology. Conditions can change rapidly, so continue to check official sources for updated information and instructions. Visit BOM to stay informed.

Move vehicles and equipment to higher ground
Relocate vehicles, machinery, outdoor furniture and valuable equipment to higher ground before access routes are cut. This helps reduce financial loss and ensures vehicles are not trapped or damaged by rising water.

Secure chemicals, fuels and poisons
Move household chemicals, fuels, pesticides and poisons well above expected flood levels. This reduces the risk of contamination and environmental harm if floodwaters enter buildings or storage areas.

Sandbag drains and entry points where possible
If appropriate and safe to do so, sandbag internal floor drains, toilets and entry points to help reduce water entering buildings. Sandbagging should only be undertaken if conditions allow and should stop if water begins rising quickly.

Never drive, walk or ride through floodwater
Floodwater can be deeper and faster‑moving than it appears and may hide debris, damaged roads or washed‑out surfaces. Vehicles can be swept away in shallow water, and walking or riding through floodwater places you at serious risk.

Be prepared to evacuate
If conditions worsen or evacuation advice is issued, leave early if it is safe to do so. Delaying evacuation can place you and others at greater risk as roads may become impassable.

If it’s flooded, forget it. Prioritise your safety, act early and follow official advice at all times.

For assistance during a flood emergency with sand-bagging or tarping of roofs, call the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500.

In life‑threatening situations, always call 000.

Take extreme care around damaged buildings, as structures may be weakened and unsafe to enter. Be aware of displaced wildlife, including snakes and other animals seeking shelter, and avoid contact where possible. Never approach fallen powerlines or electrical infrastructure, as they may still be live. Follow clean‑up and safety advice provided by Somerset Regional Council and emergency services to reduce the risk of injury, illness or further damage during recovery.

Recovery activities and information will be displayed on Council's Disaster Dashboard.