Prepare to stay safe as rainfall continues across north Queensland

Fire and Emergency Services Minister Mark Ryan is reminding Queenslanders to plan ahead and avoid flooded roads as heavy rain continues to drench some northern parts of the state.

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast a high chance of more rain and storms over northern districts today, as well as some rain for the central, Herbert and Lower Burdekin coasts.

“These unstable conditions are predicted to persist over northern Queensland into next week with some heavy falls and storms likely,” Mr Ryan said.

“Many of these areas have been experiencing wet conditions for a week now, and some communities between Proserpine and Townsville have received more than 100mm of rain in the last 24 hours. We already have many roads flooded and closed, and with more rain on the way drivers should avoid driving through floodwater.”

Mr Ryan said the summer school holidays were a peak time for road travel, but coincided with Queensland’s wet season and flooded roads could occur with little to no warning, creating dangerous situations.

“When choosing to drive through floodwater, you have no idea if the road is still there and it is not uncommon for a road to be entirely swept away by a strong current beneath,” he said.

“We’ve asked Queenslanders to remember ‘if it’s flooded, forget it’, and we’re also asking them now to prepare ahead to stay safe on the roads.

“It’s not just about finding another route, it’s about taking that extra step and evaluating whether you need to go out at all during and after a weather event.

“Sometimes you’ll need to just wait it out. It’s a small price to pay compared to risking your life and others.”

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Katarina Carroll said more than half of all flood related fatalities in Queensland were a result of people driving through floodwaters.

“Swift water rescues are one of the most dangerous activities our rescue crews undertake,” Ms Carroll said.

“While emergency services crews are trained and ready to help when emergencies strike, we’re asking Queenslanders not to put themselves, and rescue crews, in unnecessary danger by driving through floodwaters.

“Consider whether you need to go out at all, and have a plan in place, so we can all stay safe this summer.”

Ms Carroll urged people to stay up to date on weather conditions by visiting www.bom.gov.au and to check www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au for road closures.

“Queenslanders can also find out how to prepare to stay safe on the roads by visiting www.qld.gov.au/floodedroads,” she said.

In a life-threatening emergency, dial Triple Zero (000).

ENDS

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