MEDIA RELEASE: Flinders LDMG moves to ‘lean forward’ as a tropical low moves towards the QLD Coast, 24 January 2024
MEDIA RELEASE
Flinders LDMG moves to ‘lean forward’ as a tropical low moves towards the QLD Coast, 24 January 2024
The Flinders Local Disaster Management Group (FLDMG) has moved to ‘lean forward’ as it continues to monitor the slow moving tropical low currently in the Coral Sea off the North Queensland coast.
The weather system is expected to move closer to land within the next few days, possibly crossing the coast between Cardwell and Bowen.
FLDMG Chair Jane McNamara said the decision to move to lean forward was made today, in preparation for any weather event.
“By moving to lean forward it gives the community the opportunity to consider our plans over the coming days and how we each will be effected by the weather forecasts,” Cr McNamara said.
Preparations are underway, including planning for sand and bags to be made available on the north side of the river and additional locations, as required Cr McNamara stated.
Cr McNamara said with rain predicted in the Flinders River catchments it is a good time to make plans if you live in a low-lying area to relocate if the need arises. Considerations should also be taken if you and your property might be isolated due to rising floodwaters and potential road closures.
We recommend preparing your emergency kit with enough supplies to last the duration of any extended flooding. Stock supplies for your family including food, water, fuel and medications prior to event.
With cyclone and storm season upon us, it is important to stay informed of your local risk. If you can, we recommend that you check the Flinders Shire Council disaster dashboard https://flindersdashboard.qitplus.com/, sign up for BOM weather notifications http://www.bom.gov.au/qld/warnings/ and tune in to local radio ABC weather updates 1485am.
If travelling please check road reports https://www.flinders.qld.gov.au/our-infrastructure/roads within the Flinders Shire or https://qldtraffic.qld.gov.au/ and remember #FloodedForgetIt, forget it.
Please check out Get Ready Queensland website https://www.getready.qld.gov.au/getting-ready/cyclones... for information on preparing for cyclones, severe storms and flooding.
Those on rural properties please refer to the Resupply to flood isolated properties - https://www.flinders.qld.gov.au/.../resupply-to-flood...
