BOM warns of ‘life-threatening’ floods in Burdekin: Schools close
A convergence of two weather systems dumped more than 600mm of rain in parts of the Burdekin, forcing authorities to close roads and schools. CHECK OUT THE PHOTOS
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A convergence of two weather systems dumped more than 600mm of rain in parts of the Burdekin and more could be on the way.
Bureau of Meteorology meteorologist Peter Markworth said the heavy downpours which triggered flash flooding across the Burdekin was triggered by a tropical air mass being “sucked into” a low pressure system.
“Essentially when they come together they can dump heavy rainfall,” he said.
“That kind of convergence is still expected around from Townsville to Mackay. We’re not expecting totals like (today) but we will continue to monitor the situation.
“We’re expecting those conditions to move north to Cairns and Cooktown where that monsoonal trough will sit.”
Earlier in the day, the bureau warned of storms which could lead to “dangerous and life-threatening” flooding in Ayr, Alva Beach and Clare.
One driver ended up in danger after getting trapped in a flash flood.
Fire and rescue crews raced to assist a driver stuck in floodwaters near Giru.
The vehicle got stuck on Jerona Rd about 9.30am.
The heavy downpours prompted the closures of a number of schools in the Burdekin on what was meant to be the first day back of the new school year.
Home Hill State School, Home Hill State High School, Airville State School, Jarvisfield State School, Kalamia State School, Brandon State School and Osborne State School announced they would be closed today, citing safety concerns.
“Due to the current weather situation Home Hill State School is closed today. There are local road closures and localised flooding around and in the school grounds,” Home Hill State School posted on Facebook.
Mr Markworth said conditions would begin to ease by Thursday but there was the potential they could return by Sunday although rainfall totals aren’t expected to be as high.
A flood watch is in place for the Burdekin.
Mr Markworth said much of the rain fell near the coast and would have gone straight into the ocean.
Rita Island got 619mm from 9am Monday to 2pm Tuesday while Groper Creek got 560mm, Ayr 458mm and Inkerman Bridge got 456mm.
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The Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group activated this morning following localised flooding.
“While all major rivers and catchments remain at a reasonable height, local waterways around the shire have been inundated by this weather event resulting in localised flooding of roads and properties,” she said.
“There are several road closures in place around the Burdekin and water is approaching many properties so even if people are in larger vehicles, they are strongly advised to find somewhere safe to pull over to avoid bow waves washing further into properties.
“This weather event is currently stationery over the Burdekin and we have been advised by the Bureau of Meteorology it has the potential to stay there for a couple more hours, and should clear early this afternoon.”
Sandbags are available free from Ayr SES on Mccathie St and Home Hill SES on Eleventh Ave.
Waste collection in Ayr is still taking place.
Roads affected by flooding:
Bruce Highway at Plantation Creek closed except for emergency vehicles;
Home Hill is closed to the North and South;
Wangaratta is closed with high-velocity water continuing to rise;
Sewerage pump stations have been inundated;
Ayr Transfer Station and Kirknie Road Landfill are both closed
Weather situation:
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce intense rainfall that may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.
Locations which may be affected include Ayr, Alva Beach and Clare.
176mm has been recorded at Rita Creek in the 4 hours to 7.20am AEST
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises that people should:
* Never drive, walk or ride through flood waters. If it’s flooded, forget it.
* Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.
* Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm.
* Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.
* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.
Where the rain fell:
From 9am Monday to 8am Tuesday:
- Rita Island: 465mm
- Groper Creek: 370mm
- Inkerman Bridge: 351mm
- Ayr: 343mm
- Brandon: 340mm
- Alva Beach: 271mm
- Nelly Bay, Magnetic Island: 216mm
- Garbutt: 156mm
- South Townsville: 123mm
Originally published as BOM warns of ‘life-threatening’ floods in Burdekin: Schools close