Upstream and downstream refers to the side of a dam wall where impacts may occur, and it is important for Seqwater to balance the impacts for both upstream and downstream communities.   

Seqwater’s Flood Manuals set out the procedures to balance dam safety, water security, and minimising risk to people, properties, transport impacts and environmental impacts. These procedures determine the timing, magnitude and duration of flood releases.  

Impacts on both communities are determined by a variety of factors, including whether a dam is gated or un-gated, the type of weather event, water security and dam safety. Information on these topics can be found on the Seqwater website.  

Upstream flooding  

Upstream communities are located before a dam wall, on the side where water is stored and catchment inflows occur. The probability of flooding will be impacted by existing water levels in a dam, inflows from the catchment due to rainfall and groundwater.   

Downstream flooding 

Downstream communities are located on the other side of a dam wall, where outflows occur. The probability of flooding is impacted by the outflow of water from a dam either via spillway flows or planned releases, as well as riverine flooding due to rainfall and storm tides.  

It is important to note that dams will not stop flooding, however, can mitigate its effects for both upstream and downstream communities.  

Stay informed and sign up for important updates  

We encourage everyone to prepare for flood events as they happen, and stay safe by avoiding potential hazards, be cautious of fast flowing, rising and deep water and keep away from waterways. Please remember, if it’s flooded – forget it.  

For the latest information on dam releases, levels and spilling, residents can visit www.seqwater.com.au/dam-levels or sign up to Seqwater's free dam release notification service. 

For more information on weather warnings and river heights, visit www.bom.gov.au, for road closures and transport visit www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au. You can also stay connected and find out more about the impacts of localised flooding or flash flooding in your area by visiting your local council website.