Media Release
Gold Coast District severe weather media release
Whilst the Gold Coast has not been subjected to the floods and inundation of other parts of South East Queensland there is no room for complacency.
At this stage, there have been no reports of flooded homes across the city, however the District and Local Disaster Management Groups are on alert and maintaining a watching brief on developments.
There were a number of Gold Coast City Council and Main Roads closures across the city.
Gold Coast Police District Officer, Acting Superintendent Paul Ziebarth said that motorists should slow down and adapt their driving to suit the wet and slippery road conditions over the next few days.
“People are advised to take extreme caution and not to attempt to drive through floodwaters,” Acting Superintendent Ziebarth said.
“Motorists and members of the public are reminded of the hazardous and unpredictable nature of flood waters and the dangers associated with storm debris and road washouts.
“I urge them to obey road closure signage. Flooded roads, creeks and water courses should be avoided, and road conditions can change rapidly as water can rise and fall quickly. Non-essential travel in flood affected areas should be limited.
“Don’t put your family, yourself or emergency responders at risk by crossing flooded roads or causeways or attempting to to swim or enter flood waters,” Acting Superintendent Ziebarth said.
Police are urging everyone to take extra care, to re-think travel plans and to limit non-essential travel if possible in areas experiencing heavy rainfalls.
Parents are also being urged to discourage children from playing in waterways which are affected by flooding. Water levels and conditions can change rapidly causing dangerous currents and storm surges, which could result in people being swept away. This kind of behaviour often has fatal consequences and puts the lives of rescuers at risk.
The dangers of drains, creeks, rivers and causeways after heavy rain are often hidden. Being a good swimmer is not enough to survive flowing flood waters and people can easily become tangled in submerged debris.
In life threatening emergencies residents are urged to call Triple Zero (000). In non emergency situation the public are reminded to call POLICELINK on 131444
Information regarding weather and road conditions can be located at the following sites and police are urging members of the public to regularly check these locations for updates and advice:
· Bureau of Meteorology website www.bom.gov.au for up to date weather information, including up-coming forecasts;
· The Traffic and Travel information line on 13 19 40 or http://www.131940.qld.gov.au
· RACQ road closure site on 1300 130 595 or http://www.racq.com.au/travel/maps_and_Directions/road_conditions
· For information on storm and flood preparedness visit www.emergency.qld.gov.au ;
· State Emergency Service on 132 500 for storm and flood assistance;
· Monitor local councils and local radio stations for local information and updates.
07 3015 2444
