If it’s flooded, forget it … Kathy Duff Bridge at Byee on Wednesday morning (Photo: Proston Online)

December 18, 2024

At 6:43pm on Wednesday, South Burnett Regional Council issued a WATCH AND ACT emergency message for flash flooding in the region.

Intense rainfall has fallen across the South Burnett Regional Council area, leading to flash flooding.

Do not drive unless necessary.

Remember, if it is flooded, forget it.

Refer to the Bureau website for more information.

If your life is in danger, call 000.

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The South Burnett Local Disaster Management Group moved its status from “Alert” to “Stand Up” on Wednesday night due to the ongoing rain across over the region.

The intense rainfall has led to flash flooding and riverine flooding.

Council monitors more than 3000km of road network and conditions will change regularly and quickly.

Police have advised residents not to drive or walk through floodwater and avoid unnecessary travel. If you must travel, drive to the prevailing road conditions, adhere to signage and do not drive through floodwater.

Residents should not expect to see warnings signs for every crossing given the widespread impact of rainfall.

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EARLIER: At 10:00am on Wednesday, South Burnett Regional Council advised people in the area to STAY INFORMED.

There is a chance of flash flooding across the South Burnett Council area today and tonight (Wednesday, December 18).

Areas of the South Burnett region have already experienced minor to moderate levels and flash flooding in the past week.

Conditions could become dangerous.

For non-life-threatening flood and storm emergency assistance, contact SES on 132-500, 132500.qld.gov.au, or the SES Assistance Qld app on Android or iOS.

In a life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

What are we expecting?

  • There will be some flooding near rivers and creeks
  • Fallen trees on roads
  • Some roads could be flooded
  • Flash flooding can occur quickly and without warning
  • Road closures due to flash flooding are not always recorded on the Disaster Dashboard
  • Heavy rain will make it dangerous to drive

What you need to do:

  • Find out how to get ready for a flood at the Get Ready Queensland website
  • Never drive, walk, ride through, play or swim in flood water. If it’s flooded, forget it
  • Consider the consequences of road and bridge closures. Damage to roads, bridges or buildings caused by flooding and landslip may exist in your area. Consider the need to make alternate arrangements for work, children and travel
  • Drive to conditions and remain alert. Be aware of road hazards including mud, debris, and water in low-lying areas
  • Obey all signs about road closures and instructions from emergency services
  • Tell friends, family and neighbours in the area

If you find it hard to move quickly or have special or medical needs:

  • Use your Person-Centred Emergency Plan (P-CEP) now if you have one
  • Make sure you have enough medicine for at least one week
  • If anyone in your house uses powered medical equipment, like a dialysis machine or ventilator, decide now where you will go in case you lose power
  • Call your support person or service to organise transport if you need to leave
  • Leaving early is safer than waiting

If you are a tourist, visitor, camper or caravanner:

  • Check road conditions and plan your route before you leave
  • Be ready to move if the situation gets worse
  • Ask the campground owners whether the site floods
  • Check your surroundings of water catchments, and monitor conditions

If you have livestock:

  • Move livestock to higher ground. You may need to open gates to other paddocks so animals can move if floodwaters rise
  • Block access to low-lying fields, shelters or other places near creeks and rivers
  • Provide lots of food and clean water in a safe place away from creeks and rivers
  • Make sure animals can be identified if they get lost; this may include brands or tags

STAY INFORMED

For more information:

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Disaster Dashboards for other local councils:

And … if it’s flooded, forget it!

[UPDATED]

  

 

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