Heavy rainfall on the way for Central Queensland
The Palaszczuk Government together with the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) is urging central Queensland residents to prepare for severe weather conditions with possible widespread rainfall of up to 400mm forecast throughout the region in the coming days.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued a flood watch from Tully to Gladstone with the possibility of flash flooding and isolated falls of 400mm.
Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan said Queenslanders were still feeling the effects of Tropical Cyclone Debbie and reminded residents of the dangers of driving through floodwater.
“The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting that this will be the largest rain event in Queensland since Tropical Cyclone Debbie and there is the potential for flash flooding throughout the flood watch areas,” Minister Ryan said.
“We have all seen the devastation these widespread falls can cause and in some areas there is still residual water left from TC Debbie in March.
“We need people to be safe and not take unnecessary risks when driving through floodwater, have a Plan B and avoid driving altogether if possible
“Please don’t put your life, and the lives of our emergency services personnel at risk unnecessarily.
“No matter what the road may look like you never know what is lurking underneath and we want everyone to do the right thing.”
QFES Commissioner Katarina Carroll said personnel were well-equipped and ready to respond to the predicted severe weather.
“We are ready to help Queenslanders affected by flooding and possible storms over the coming days but it’s vital residents know their risks so they can take extra measures now,” Ms Carroll said.
“QFES crews rescued 220 people from floodwater during TC Debbie which shows how quickly conditions can change.
“Avoid non-essential travel as there is always the possibility of flash flooding especially near river catchment areas.
“I can’t stress it enough, if it’s flooded, forget it.
“Conditions are constantly changing so please stay up-to-date with warnings by tuning into local radio or visiting the BoM website.
“Anyone requiring assistance needs to call Triple Zero (000) in a life threatening emergency or 132 500 for emergency storm or flood assistance from the State Emergency Service (SES).”
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