TRC monitoring effects of heavy rain; urges caution on roads

Toowoomba Regional Council is well prepared to respond, if and when required, to any situation across the Region as a storm system moves across southern Queensland.

Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio said Council had activated the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) to STAND UP status.

“The LDMG is coordinating with relevant emergency services and would monitor advice and information from the State Disaster Coordination Centre and the Bureau of Meteorology,” Mayor Antonio said.

“Council, and in turn the LDMG, will follow established procedures for disaster planning if required.

“The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting heavy rain and storms, with the potential for flash flooding, are likely to continue today and possibly across the weekend for most of southern Queensland, including our Region.

“It is impossible to forecast exactly how much rain will fall in any given location. These weather events are extremely unpredictable. We have seen falls ranging from 100mm to 200mm across vast areas of the Region.

“We are monitoring rainfall forecasts to gauge where any potential problems could occur. Our flood mitigation measures are working to their design specifications.

“Our top priority is to ensure all residents are safe and well informed about the potential dangers from possible flood waters. It is better to err on the side of caution. Please keep away from flood water.

“Some properties have experienced flooding and this could worsen if the rain extends across the weekend.

“Property owners who need assistance with flooding at their residence are advised to contact the State Emergency Service on 132 500, including for the provision of sandbags.

“Given the widespread, heavy rainfall there are many roads across the Region that are affected. If possible, please avoid travelling in these conditions. Motorists are advised to use extreme caution in the coming days.

“Motorists are reminded to heed the simple message, ‘If it’s flooded, forget it’. Please observe any warning signs and drive to the conditions, however not every hazard will be signposted.

“Wet weather creates many hazards on the roads, such as water over the road, potholes, washouts and slippery surfaces. These conditions persist after the rain has stopped and motorists need to exercise caution.

“It is a good idea to check on elderly or isolated neighbours.”

In a life-threatening emergency call 000 and for emergency flood or storm assistance, call the State Emergency Service on 132 500.

Listen to ABC Radio for relevant disaster information updates and warnings.

Advice about TRC road closures will be notified at http://disaster.tr.qld.gov.au/ 

Council facility notifications/closures:

Waste facilities: The Kleinton Waste Management Centre and the Reviva Recycle shop are closed due to heavy rain affecting the site; Kleinton School Road has water over the road.

There is limited access to the Toowoomba Waste Management Centre, due to water over Hermitage Road. Commercial customers can visit the Greater Toowoomba Waste Management Centre at O’Mara Road.

Access to Greater Toowoomba Waste Management Centre is restricted with water over O’Mara Road on the Eastern side. Access is available from the Cecil Plains Road end.

Crows Nest, Millmerran, Goombungee and Clifton Waste facilities are also closed until further notice due to the extensive rain and localised flooding.

Toowoomba Animal Management Centre: The Toowoomba Animal Management Centre at Anzac Avenue is closed to the public until further notice.

TRC Service Centres: The Clifton and Goombungee Service Centres are closed to the public.

TRC Recreation facilities: The Highfields Fitness and Recreation Centre will be closed from 2pm (February 25).

Visitor Information Centres:

The Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre is closed.