Flash flooding warning issued for Bundaberg region

Heavy rain has caused Paradise Dam to overflow and Bundaberg locals have been warned to expect more serious rain in the next 48 hours and possible flooding. UPDATES TO COME.

Bundaberg is expecting up to 150mm of rain in the next 48 hours.

Paradise Dam is overflowing as heavy rains settles across much of Wide Bay and south east Queensland, with the wet weather expected to continue until the end of the week.

The Bureau of Meteorology on Tuesday issued a minor flood warning for parts of southern and central Queensland, including south east Queensland with the Burnett, Burrum and Mary Rivers key points of concern.

Moderate to heavy rainfall is likely in Bundaberg, with showers and thunderstorms expected to continue over the next few days.

“Widespread minor flooding is likely across the flood watch area from Tuesday, with locally moderate to major flooding possible in the areas of heaviest rainfall,” the Bureau said.

“Flooding and flood warnings are already occurring in several catchments within the flood watch, as noted against the list of catchments below.

“Localised flooding, including flash flooding, is likely. Flooding may result in disruption to transport routes and isolation of some communities.”

The Bureau predicts between 80mm to 150mm of rainfall is likely for the region.

A minor flooding warning has been issued for parts of the Wide Bay and Burnett.

According to the Bundaberg Council Disaster Dashboard and the Queensland Traffic map, all roads remain open across the Bundaberg region, but those living in areas prone to flash flooding are urged to be cautious on the roads.

The Bundaberg Burnett Disaster Management Group has reminded locals “if it’s flooded, forget it”.

As rainfall continues, SunWater has issued an advice notice for those living downstream of Paradise Dam as the dam begins to spill excess water into the river.

Bundaberg is expecting up to 150mm of rain in the next 48 hours.

“Expect increased river flows tomorrow,” a spokesperson said on Tuesday.

“There is no immediate danger.”

Residents downstream of the dam and in the Booyal community are advised to have a plan in place if flooding starts, avoid floodwater, river and creeks and remain up to date with weather predictions and local disaster dashboards.

According to the Ergon outage finder, those across the region continue to have power but morning storms may impact service.

Water pictured over the road on Biggenden Gooroolba Road. Image credit: Angela Berrie.

Emergency services advise people to:

* If you have children make sure they are with you or an adult you trust.

* Park your car undercover away from trees.

* Close doors and windows.

* Keep asthma medications close by. Storms and wind can trigger asthma attacks.

* Charge mobile phones and power banks in case the power goes out.

* Put your pets somewhere safe and make sure they can be identified in case they get lost.

* Do not drive now unless you have to because conditions are dangerous.

* Tell friends, family and neighbours in the area.

* Go inside a strong building now. Stay inside until the storm has passed.

Further updates to come as weather continues.