Recent heavy rains on the Central Coast have seen dam levels reach a record breaking high – with the Upper Mooney Dam and Mangrove Creek Dam at full capacity.
Central Coast Council Director Water and Sewer, Jamie Loader, said this is the first time Mangrove Creek Dam has reached full capacity since construction was completed in 1982.
“This storage increase places the Central Coast water supply in a secure position for years to come,” Loader said.
“While the overflow from the Mangrove Creek Dam will contribute to the level of the already flooded rivers, it is a relatively low rate and small in comparison to existing catchment flows.
“For comparison, the current flow over the spillway is less than 2 gigalitres per day, with the Warragamba Dam spilling at 515 gigalitres per day at its peak.
“Although rising water levels are unpredictable during a natural disaster, Council crews are on the ground monitoring the situation and providing daily advice to impacted communities as required.
“The dam level remains significantly below any levels that require activation of the Dam Emergency Plan.”
Loader said the Mangrove Creek Dam Picnic Area remains open, but the spillway is not visible from this area.
Although storm flow has increased the turbidity and colour of water supply sources, Council’s two treatment plants are performing well, Loader said.
“Council is selecting best quality water sources to use and is currently drawing water from Mardi Dam and the Upper Mooney Dam,” he said.
Council staff continue to monitor and optimise treatment processes to ensure the safety of the water provided.
If anyone experiences a water or sewer system disruption, call Council immediately on 1300 463 954.
For all current water or sewer service interruptions please go to Council’s Water Outages webpage.
Primary source: Media release, Jul 7, 2022, Central Coast Council