South East Queensland is going to get another drenching based on current computer generated rainfall forecast maps for the next 8 days.Along with areas of northern NSW as well, it appears up to (and over) 400mm of rain is possible over the period from tomorrow Sunday 21 January 2012 to next Saturday 28 January 2012.
Whilst these are only long-term forecasts that only indicate an approximate area, the chances of flooding during these rains is possible. Take the time to prepare now just in case.
The Gold Coast City Council's disaster management website (goldcoastcity.com.au/disaster) has excellent resources and information on how to be prepared for a disaster event. As a community, our strongest buffer in any disaster is: be informed, be prepared.
Some links that provide local information about preparing for floods including:
- Checking if you're in a flood prone area (flood heights and maps)
- Preparing for a flood
- Frequently asked questions about floods
The following basic tips regarding getting prepared are from Council's free Disaster Education Guide, which is available for download from their website, or printed copies are available from Council offices and libraries.
Three easy steps to plan for emergencies
1. Before a flood:
- Identify which roads and causeways are likely to flood and plan an alternative access route if necessary. These roads can usually be identified by looking for flood level markers.
- If your property is likely to be isolated in a flood, stock up on extra non- perishable supplies including bottled water and ensure your emergency kit is up to date.
- Identify when and where you would evacuate to if required.
- Ensure your insurance covers flood damage.
2. During a flood warning:
- Listen to your local radio station for flood updates.
- If it’s flooded, forget it. Don’t walk, ride or drive through flood waters.
- Turn off water, power and gas supplies.
- Raise furniture, valuables and electrical items onto higher floors, beds, tables or roof spaces.
- Sand bag entry points to your property. Put a sand bag inside toilets and on top of indoor drains to prevent sewage back flow.
- Move vehicles, outdoor equipment, garbage, and chemicals to higher ground.
- Ensure the safety of pets, children, elderly and those with special needs.
3. After a flood:
- Don’t wade or drive into remnant flood waters.
- Don’t re-enter your home until it is declared safe.
- Don’t use gas or electrical appliances until they are checked for safety.
- Don’t eat food that has been in flood water.
- Boil tap water until water supplies are declared safe.
- Contact your local SES on 132 500 for assistance
Phone 000 immediately if someone is caught in flood waters
More information?
For help and further information visit Council’s
disaster management website:
hen follow the links to Floods.