Noosa Residents warned to prepare for possible flooding

The Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, Councillor Bob Abbot, is advising Noosa Shire residents to prepare for the possibility of heavy rain, high winds and flooding over the next few days.

The Bureau of Meteorology has advised that Noosa Shire may experience heavy rain of up to 400 millimetres and winds of up to 100 kilometres per hour commencing in the early hours of Friday morning.

Sandbags are available from SES sheds in Tewantin, Cooroy, Pomona and Boreen Point.

Cr Abbot said: “It is expected that one of the highest tides of the year will be experienced at 9am Friday morning and this may be accompanied by storm surges causing flooding in some areas.

“Surf Lifesaving QLD has advised that local beaches are closed until further notice.

“Low lying residential and flood-prone areas such as around Cooroy, Pomona and Cooran on Six Mile Creek, and the Kin Kin area around Kin Kin Creek, may experience flooding.

“I would advise all residents to listen to weather reports, stay off the roads over the next 24-48 hours and prepare homes for heavy rain and high winds.”

Preparations for residents should include: securing any outdoor items that may blow away and become dangerous projectiles; ensuring proper drainage for flood- prone areas around homes; preparing for the potential for school closures and minimising any unnecessary driving.

All emergency services are in full readiness for the event.

19 February 2015