Local roads have been impacted by flash flooding with Bundaberg Regional Council calling on residents to heed warnings and drive to conditions after the continuation of recent heavy rainfall saw up to 120 mm falling in some areas overnight.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the intense downpour had left cause flash flooding on some roads and left debris scattered across the region.
“We’ve seen significant rainfall in a short period which has impacted roads and drains,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“Flash flooding may persist, and debris may be present on the roads, so we’re asking all motorists to drive to the conditions and never attempt to cross a flooded roadway.
“Remember – if it’s flooded, forget it.”
Storms can impact roads with creeks, drains, roads and other watercourses becoming inundated very quickly and causing flash flooding, sometimes in a matter of minutes.
While Council makes every effort to advise residents of water over local roads through the Disaster Dashboard and regular updates, the speed at which flash flooding occurs, and often just as quickly subsides, makes it extremely difficult for Council to get to every site in time to erect warning signage and remove signage in a timely manner.
Mayor Blackburn said that’s why the simple rule was if there was water over a road motorists should not cross it.
“Flash flooding can occur very quickly and many locals would know there are some areas which are always impacted in heavy rain.
“Don’t wait for a ‘road closed’ sign before avoiding an area with water over the road. Just adhere to the ‘if it’s flooded, forget it’ principle.”
She said Council was also encouraging residents to report any damaged infrastructure via the Snap Send Solve app to help crews prioritise repairs.
“We appreciate the community’s patience as our teams work to assess and restore impacted areas,” Mayor Blackburn said.
Residents can stay informed about road closures and weather updates via the Disaster Dashboard here.
During severe weather, stay up to date with weather warnings at http://www.bom.gov.au/qld/.
For flood emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.
For life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
