Redland City Council is urging residents and visitors along coastal areas, especially on the islands, to be prepared for a severe weather event which is likely to affect the area from Thursday.
Redland City Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group Chair Karen Williams said that with heavy rain and strong winds likely as a result of cyclonic activity in northern Australia, residents should ensure that their families and homes were ready.
“It’s only precautionary but it is far better to take steps now to secure and protect your property, as well as have back-up plans should transport links be cut, rather than trying to do it when the weather hits,’’ Cr Williams said.
“While there is no need for alarm, the Weather bureau is forecasting possible heavy falls and the chance of thunderstorms on both Thursday and Friday, so we are likely to get a drenching.”
Council has specialised information site loaded with tips to help residents prepare for such severe weather – you will find it at www.redlanddisasterplan.com.au. There are also disaster plans tailored specifically for specific areas of the City.’
The anticipated weather conditions include predictions of rainfall of up to 200mm in some areas across the south-east in the shadow of a low-pressure system currently located in the Coral Sea off North Queensland but expected to head south.
Cr Williams said remote and island residents in particular should ensure they have stocked up on necessities such as medications and have plans in place should there be disruptions to ferry and other transport services.
“Should we cop the brunt of the forecast conditions, the bay may become dangerous, particularly with the big morning tides late this week,” Cr Williams said.
“We are also likely to see powerful surf and strong currents, leading to beach erosion and the potential for flooding in low-lying foreshore areas and around creeks.
“The Get Ready message is the same for mainlanders who should also be tidying up loose objects and cleaning gutters around the home as a precaution.
“Those living along foreshore areas should also be particularly aware of the impacts of storm surges where weather conditions together with high tides have the potential to cause localised flooding. Boat owners should ensure their vessels are securely moored.’’
Further updates and information is available on the bureau’s website at www.bom.gov.au or by calling 1300 659 219.
For all the latest news and updates, follow Redland City Council on Facebook (Facebook.com/RedlandCouncil) and Twitter (Twitter.com/RedlandCouncil).
For emergency assistance contact the SES on 13 25 00. Always contact 000 in a life-threatening emergency.
Residents should be cautious near the water’s edge this week, particularly on the morning high tides:
- Stay well away from the water’s edge
- Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters
- Keep clear of creeks and storm drains
- Stay tuned to the Bureau of Meteorology and the media for updates
- Always follow instructions provided by emergency services.
The following high tides for the morning are expected around the Redlands:
Location | Thurs 19 Feb | Fri 20 Feb | Sat 21 Feb | Sun 22 Feb |
Point Lookout | 8:30am | 9:15am | 9:59am | 10:42am |
Dunwich | 10:01am | 10:46am | 11:30am | 12:13pm |
Cleveland Point | 10:03am | 10:48am | 11:32am | 12:15pm |
Wellington Point | 9:44am | 10:29am | 11:13am | 11:56am |
Victoria Point | 10:04am | 10:49am | 11:33am | 12:16pm |
Redland Bay | 10:20am | 11:05am | 11:49am | 12:32pm |