Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Local Disaster Management Group Monitoring Tropical Low

The Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) is monitoring the situation as a tropical low continues to develop off the coast of north Queensland.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin, chair of the LDMG, said the LDMG encourages all organisations and residents to be prepared for the potential impact of the severe weather event which could bring strong winds, heavy rain and flooding to the region.  

"I want to assure residents that the LDMG have been monitoring the weather system and this afternoon (Tuesday) moved to lean forward with the tropical low expected to hit the coast on Thursday," Ms McLaughlin said.

"We have learned from previous weather events that preparation is key to minimising the damage and disruption caused by these events.  

“The Home Hill SES, Ayr SES and Giru SES have free sandbags available now and a copy of the Burdekin Emergency Guide is available to download on Council’s website or pick up a copy at Council offices to help you prepare.  

“It is also a timely reminder to review your emergency kit and emergency plan if you haven’t done so recently.  

“To keep informed about the low system's progress and potential impacts, I encourage residents to check the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard regularly and sign up for notifications at disaster.burdekin.qld.gov.au.

“You can phone Council on 4783 9800 or listen to ABC Townsville or Sweet FM 97.1 for further information.”

Meanwhile, Ms McLaughlin is encouraging families to collect any loose items from their loved ones' graves as soon as possible, as a tropical low is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the coast over the coming days.  

"We are taking every precaution to protect our cemeteries from the weather event, but we cannot guarantee the safety of personal items as Council staff are unable to collect and store them," she said.  

"We ask families to please remove any flowers, photos, ornaments or other items."  

Ms McLaughlin said the LDMG will continue to monitor the weather event closely and will provide updates on Council’s social media channels and the Burdekin Disaster Dashboard.

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