Council prepared before weather event unfolds
Published 28 March 2022
Preparations have been finalised across the Moreton Bay Region, to be ready for the fresh threat of more severe weather tonight and tomorrow.
Acting Mayor Jodie Shipway said while Council staff are on standby to be deployed, locals need to use this time to prepare their homes and family.
“I understand many residents might be feeling a bit anxious, but rest assured our team is watching the situation closely and are already operating around the clock,” she said.
“What we need you to do is prepare your homes and stay off the roads.
“Locally intense rainfall is possible and since many of our catchments are already saturated, there’s an increased risk of dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding.
“These conditions could lead to multiple roads being inundated, meaning drivers could find themselves caught out by rapidly-rising waters, including travellers around the Kilcoy and Woodford areas.
“Moreton Bay rebounded strongly and cleaned up quickly from the recent flooding, but we cannot be complacent.
“Our libraries are open as Places of Refuge during business hours, so please feel free to come in and take shelter from the weather, use our phones and computers for free, or even just for a hot cuppa and a chat.
“If the situation escalates, we will be ready. Our evacuation centres at Caboolture Memorial Hall and Watson Park are currently being stocked and will be ready to open this evening, if that’s required.
“Our sandbag centres are open across the region, and the SES has had several calls for help with sandbagging needs.
“We’ve already got six minor roads shut because of impacts from previous flooding so I can’t stress this enough: If it’s flooded, forget it!
“Seqwater tells us North Pine Dam flood releases might be needed in the next 24-36 hours, which might also see Youngs Crossing close.
“This system is expected to be less severe than what we went through in February, but it is similar, so we need to monitor it closely.
“I understand many in our community are still hurting and suffering loss from the last event, and this isn’t an easy time.
“We are here for you, so if you need help please don’t hesitate to reach out.
“I’m so proud of the strength and resilience of our community, and I know we can get through anything if we work together to prepare and support each other.”
Monitor your local conditions and stay up to date with warnings: www.bom.gov.au/qld/warnings
Subscribe to MoretonAlert for the latest emergency advice: mbrc.link/moreton-alert
To find your local sandbag station: https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Disaster-Management/Sandbags
For the latest road closures: Weather impacted roads - Moreton Bay Regional Council
For information on evacuation centres and places of refuge: Evacuation centres and places of refuge - Moreton Bay Regional Council