Toowoomba Region braces for more wet weather

Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) is asking residents to be extra vigilant as more rain is forecast over the coming days.

While the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is predicting more rain, it shouldn’t be to the extent the Region experienced last week. Regardless of the predicted severity, Council is making preliminary preparations and the Local Disaster Management Group is ready to respond if and when required.

Mayor Paul Antonio said while no severe weather warnings had yet been issued, the general outlook was for falls across the Region, particularly over the weekend.

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

“The Region is already saturated and any extra rainfall could increase the risk of flash flooding.

“During the March/April rain event we tragically lost two lives in the Toowoomba region with people driving through flooded water.

“We don’t want to see a repeat of this should the predicted wet weather flood roads again so we ask motorists to please obey the signage. It’s impossible for Council to sign every defect and danger on the roads so be alert and drive to the conditions.

“I cannot stress this highly enough – if it’s flooded, forget it.

“As we continue to monitor the situation, I would simply ask residents to be alert and not alarmed."

Property owners who need assistance are advised to contact the State Emergency Service on 132 500.

Self-service sand is available at Jondaryan, Oakey, Crows Nest, Goombungee and Pittsworth for residents to fill their own bags. Sandbags or alternatives such as garden soil bags can be sourced at local hardware and landscaping businesses. Listen to ABC Radio for relevant disaster information updates and warnings.

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