Council maintains flood weather watch
Published 25 February 2012
Moreton Bay Regional Council is continuing to monitor rain and flood levels across the region after localised flooding overnight.
Mayor Allan Sutherland said council crews worked around the clock to keep a close eye on water releases from the North Pine Dam, severe thunderstorms with very heavy rain, and rising creek levels around Burpengary.
Stocks of sand and sandbags were available at seven locations so residents could prepare for the predicted heavy rain and thunderstorms," Mayor Sutherland said.
"Rising water levels at Burpengary resulted in council issuing Moreton Alert warnings to some residents. Officers also door knocked at-risk properties early this morning," Mayor Sutherland said.
"An evacuation centre was established at Burpengary as a precaution but easing rain from early morning saw water levels in the creek near Dale Street peak just below 9 metres around 4am.
"As a result, evacuations were not required. However, we will be keeping a close watch on water level gauges and rain forecasts over the coming days.
"Rain is predicted to ease across South East Queensland today (Saturday). However if rain re-intensifies water levels will rise quickly."
Currently 44 roads are closed to traffic due to flooding – including Youngs Crossing Road at Petrie while Seqwater releases water from the North Pine Dam.
Mayor Sutherland said council crews were continuing to inspect and assess damage to public infrastructure.
"There were reports of strong winds bringing down trees and once again the big wet has left a host of potholes in its wake," Mayor Sutherland said.
"The SES has attended 10 jobs mainly helping with sandbagging or leaking roofs."
Mayor Sutherland urged motorists to drive carefully and according to conditions.
"There is still plenty of water about on our roads. With rain also predicted for most of today, take it easy if you have to be out and about and don’t take risks when it comes to flooded roadways," Mayor Sutherland said.
"Remember to also keep children well away from flowing creeks, drains and waterways."
Information about local road conditions is regularly updated and provided on council’s website www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/roadconditions
More advice about how you can prepare you and your family is available from www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/disaster
Local residents are encouraged to monitor 612 AM, 101.5FM or 99.7FM for weather updates, warnings and road condition updates.
For flood or storm assistance call the SES on 132 500 or contact council on 3205 0555.