Why Rochester locals are relieved despite ‘incredibly traumatic’ flooding

esidents in Rochester, in Victoria’s north — which was devastated by severe flooding in October 2022 — are relieved this morning as flooding appears to have peaked at below expected levels.

Today reporter Izabella Staskowski told Tony Jones on 3AW Mornings the floods are “a kick in the guts” for the flood ravaged community, where an estimated 30 to 40 per cent of people still live in sheds, caravans and other makeshift accommodation.

Press PLAY below to hear the latest from Rochester

Chair of the Rochester Recovery Committee, Leigh Wilson, says the flood threat was “incredibly traumatic” to the community, which is still recovering from the 2022 floods, but things are looking good.

“We’ve averted quite a bit of carnage here,” he told Tony Jones.

Press PLAY below to hear what the mood is like in Rochester this morning

Flooding is expected to begin receding at midday.

An emergency warning is in place for riverine flooding in Rochester, with residents warned it’s now too late to leave.

See the latest emergency warning information HERE.

Image: Nine