Townsville schools to close tomorrow as disaster declaration made

The Premier has ordered all Townsville schools and childcare centres to close tomorrow.

The decision was made after an emergency briefing, giving families as much prior warning as possible.

“We need to ensure everyone’s safety,” the Premier said.

“The bureau’s advice is, if this monsoonal weather continues, the next few days could see more heavy rainfall.

“It is safer if families are not trying to get to and from school.”

The Government has declared a disaster situation.

It gives police wider evacuation powers if needed.

The severe weather is a once in 20 year event.

The Premier said people should take care on the roads, stay home if possible and remember if it’s flooded forget it.

The Queensland Disaster Management Committee will meet at Kedron at 10 tomorrow morning.