BE prepared and batten down the hatches … that was the message from the Southern Downs Regional Council on Friday 3 June.
Mayor Tracy Dobie, chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, highlighted the chances of severe weather events occurring over the weekend.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued a Severe Weather Warning update on the pending system that is moving into the Southern Downs region, with indications that there could be 24-hour rainfall totals of between 30mm to 150mm likely over inland parts.
Cr Dobie said that in light of the Severe Weather Warning issued by the BoM and the reasonable chance of flooding in the Condamine River gorge, residents particularly located from Killarney to Murrays Bridge were encouraged to be vigilant.
“It is important for residents located in this area to move stock and property to higher land and ensure that they have the appropriate provisions to see out a period of time where they might be isolated by potential flooding”, Cr Dobie said.
“People are encouraged to stay well clear of flood waters and never to drive through or enter floodwaters.
“In doing so you could be putting you and your family’s lives in danger, as well as those of the volunteers and the responding emergency services personnel.
“Remember – if its flooded, forget it”, Cr Dobie added.
The council reminded residents that neither they nor the State Emergency Service had sandbags available to purchase, these can be purchased from local hardware stores.
The council will continue to provide updates through its website and facebook page and MySDRC App but also encouraged residents to view updates on the BoM website.
Mayor Dobie reminded residents that in the first instance where problems were encountered, they should contact the State Emergency Service on 132 500, as they were the best equipped to deal with emergencies.
