Storms close 49 roads

With 49 roads on the Sunshine Coast now closed and further heavy rainfall expected this afternoon and tonight, the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) has reminded people to avoid all unnecessary travel.
Sandbagging operations are now scaling back to Nambour/Woombye SES depot only, with limited supplies remaining as SES crews now responding to emergency situations. The SES have responded to more than 136 requests for assistance.
Two evacuation centres have been placed on standby should they be required, at Caloundra Indoor Stadium and Maroochydore Basketball Stadium (Elizabeth Daniels Park).
The LDMG’s Andrew Ryan said flash flooding was expected to increase throughout Thursday afternoon.
“We already have roads closed and more are likely to close, with further flash flooding very likely when the heavy rainfall comes through this afternoon,” Mr Ryan said.
“Please do not be out on the roads unless you absolutely need to be – your safety should be top priority.
“Gusts of up to 120km/h are expected to affect the coast and we’ll have a possible storm surge of 400mm about 10pm tonight (Thursday), so localised tidal inundation is possible,“ he said.
All Sunshine Coast schools, USC, TAFE and visitor information centres are closed.
You should:
* Avoid unnecessary travel on Thursday, due to expected hazardous road conditions. If travel is unavoidable, remember to never drive through flood waters.
* Visit council’s Disaster Hub at www.disaster.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au for all the information you need to be prepared before, during and after severe weather including how to plan an emergency kit, weather warnings, road closures, airport information and news updates.
* Move your car under cover or away from trees.
* Secure loose outdoor items.
* Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.
* Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.
* Never drive, walk or ride through flood waters. If it’s flooded, forget it.
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
For assistance call SES 132500. Triple-zero (000) for emergencies.
Further updates will be issued as required, until the weather system no longer poses a threat to our region.