Storage, River Flow and Rainfall Update

Monday, July 1st, 2019

Rainfall recorded at South Gippsland Water’s storages during the week of 22^nd June – 28^th June 2019 was Lance Creek 3mm, Ruby Creek 1mm, Deep Creek 0mm and Battery Creek 0mm.

South Gippsland Water’s Managing Director, Philippe du Plessis said, “The past week has seen cool frosty evenings, but little rainfall. With little rainfall received to round out the financial year, Ruby Creek which supplies Leongatha remains at 56% capacity.”

The frosty mornings the region has experienced, with freezing temperatures, some people may have found that they have no running water due to frozen pipes or water meter. “Water meters are particularly vulnerable to freezing as they are above ground, likewise water can freeze in pipes that are on or close to the surface,” explained Mr du Plessis. “It can be really inconvenient, but the safest way to resolve the situation is to wait for the temperature to rise and for them to naturally thaw.”

When water freezes it expands, which can cause a water meter to burst or pipes to split. To help prevent this, cover your meter with a bucket or box overnight.

Remember – do not pour boiling water over a frozen water meter or exposed pipe to thaw them, it can cause cracks or damage leading to leaks and costly repairs.

Customers are reminded that responsibility for the use and condition of pipes on the house side of the water meter is theirs and, if damage occurs, a licensed plumber will need to be called. If there is a leak or issue with the water meter or the pipes on the street side, please contact the South Gippsland Water customer service team on 1300 851 636.