Stuarts Point groundwater update #5

Published on 28 March 2022

20220325 Stuarts Point Groundwater

Water pumps are being set up in Stuarts Point as a precaution given the current groundwater levels and weather forecast.

Kempsey Shire Council are taking necessary steps to install a pump at Third Ave and to seek approval to carry out pumping.

There is a risk of groundwater reaching surface level in Stuarts Point in a similar way to the Flood Event of March 2021, as previously reported.

If you need emergency help with flooding in your property call the NSW State Emergency Service on 13 25 00. In life-threatening situations call triple zero (000) immediately.

Groundwater levels have risen approximately 0.08m since Sunday morning and are approximately 0.79m below the level seen in March 2021 Flood Event.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Flood Watch for the Mid North Coast and Northern Regions as well as a Severe Weather Warning for the northern parts of the Mid North Coast.

Given the risk, Council are in discussions with other key government agencies to ensure a full response to any and all situations.

Groundwater levels at Stuarts Point have already risen in the past few days.

The further rain forecast on top of this means there is a risk of land and property inundation.

The equipment being organised by Council will be deployed if groundwater levels rise to the point where:

  • Pumping is an effective option, and
  • Council gets approval from regulators

Unfortunately, using pumps to lower groundwater levels during a rain event, or when groundwater levels are below the surface, is largely ineffective.

Council staff and emergency services are monitoring the situation on the ground and through groundwater level monitors.

Residents should monitor conditions at their own properties and act accordingly.

Readings taken at 11.30am Sunday 27 March 2022.

1130am groundwater table Stuarts Point 270322

 

How to read this diagram

The diagram shows the groundwater level for the past 30 days. The three graphs essentially present the same data but each with relation to a different reference point (or datum).

  • The blue graph shows the depth of water below the Mount Point, which is where the laser that takes the reading is mounted.
  • The red graph shows the height of the water above the Australian Height Datum (AHD) which is the official height metric based on the average of sea levels from 1966-68.
  • The green graph shows the depth of the water below ground level at the location of the meter.
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