Queensland Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Chair and Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor, Paul Antonio, has urged caution from residents as the region experiences its most severe rain event since 2011.
“In the past 24 to 48 hours we’ve seen substantial rain throughout our Region,” Mayor Antonio said today.
“Fortunately we didn’t have intense rain overnight however with large rainfalls and strong winds expected again today and tomorrow, I urge our residents to avoid driving where possible and to look out for each other.
“With rain of this nature our ground is saturated which means we’re seeing the water running off into our dams and creeks. We’re also seeing fallen trees and debris throughout the Region so if you don’t need to be on the roads, please stay off them.
“While the heavy rain has damaged property, fortunately, our dams are receiving a good soaking with the combined dam levels rising from 42.4% earlier this week, up to 62.0% as of 8am today. With the dams continuing to rise our staff are monitoring the levels in accordance with our dam safety protocols.”
He said the Group was also monitoring the Condamine River and all other river levels in the region’s townships.
“With the rain ongoing, I’d like to thank everyone who has played a role in keeping us safe in this event. In particular, our SES volunteers who worked through the night, responding to calls for assistance.”
“My thoughts are also with our neighbouring local government areas who are also being inundated with rain. It was heart-breaking to hear a SES volunteer lost their life overnight in Coolana. My thoughts are with their family and loved ones.
“With more than 100 road conditions throughout the Toowoomba Region, the LDMG will remain active, responding to any requests it receives.”
To stay up-to-date with all the latest weather alerts and current road conditions, visit the Disaster Dashboard http://disaster.tr.qld.gov.au
In a life-threatening emergency call 000 and for emergency flood or storm assistance, call the State Emergency Service on 132 500.
