Bruce Highway to remain closed between Sandy Corner and Alligator Creek overnight

Bruce Highway to remain closed between Sandy Corner and Alligator Creek overnight

The Bruce Highway will remain closed between Sandy Corner and Alligator Creek overnight after the Haughton River Bridge became submerged by rising river levels this afternoon.

The Haughton River is currently recording a height of 3.1 metres at Giru.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group Chair Lyn McLaughlin said the bridge continued to remain underwater and a significant amount of debris now covered the bridge.

“Once the floodwater recedes, RoadTek crews assess the safety of the Haughton River Bridge before commencing the laborious task of removing debris with assistance by Council Officers,” Cr McLaughlin said.

“We encourage all motorists wishing to travel between Ayr and Townsville to refrain from driving until the highway is reopened as this process may take some time.

“As soon as the Department of Main Roads declares the highway re-opened, we will communicate this with the community via our Burdekin Emergency Dashboard, Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Coordination Centre Facebook page and local radio.”

In addition to the Bruce Highway, the following local roads continue to remain closed:

Cr McLaughlin said the Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) along with Queensland Police and SES will continue to monitor the current weather conditions and river levels.

A conserve water notice continues to be in place for Giru and surrounding areas.

Residents are reminded that if it’s flooded, forget it.

For up to date flood warnings please visit http://www.bom.gov.au/qld/warnings.

For updates on disaster information please visit http://disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au/ and follow the Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Coordination Centre on Facebook.