Weather improves but we still have flooded roads and waterways

While the weather continues to improve across the Sunshine Coast the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) moves into damage evaluation and assessment mode.

Mayor Mark Jamieson said he was pleased to announce there have been no reports of major damage across the region as a result of ex-Tropical Cyclone Marcia.

“After some very heavy rain this morning there are still a large number of roads closed across the region due to flooding,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“I urge people who do not need to be on the road to refrain from driving as this will allow Council time to assess the situation to ensure there are no dangers.

“I would like to thank the community for their accurate reporting on flooded roads across the Coast. This allows Council to prioritise what needs to be done and once confirmed helps update the Disaster Management Hub.”

Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Coordinator Andrew Ryan said Council has 24 crews who are assessing and inspecting roads, parks and beaches to ensure they are safe.

“I am happy to report Kenilworth can now be accessed via the Maleny Kenilworth Road,” Mr Ryan said.

“There are approximately 400 people out of power in Kenilworth and Energex are rectifying this problem as a priority.

“While the weather has improved we have a concern that access on the Bruce Highway may be cut South of Gympie later tonight. DTMR will monitor this situation closely.

“With roads across the Coast still closed due to flooding I would like to reinforce the message when it comes to driving through flood waters – if it’s flooded, forget it.

“I urge parents to keep children away from waterways and drains as the water is moving extremely quickly and is very dangerous,” Mr Ryan said.

“Beaches are still closed at the moment as there is a lot of foam and debris making conditions unsafe for swimmers.”

Weather warnings, road closures and other important information can be found on Council’s Disaster Hub at www.disaster.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.  The Disaster Hub also links to airport updates, traffic cameras, flood mapping, and Council’s news updates and social media.

For regular weather updates, you can also tune into your local radio station.