SCHOOLS across south east Queensland have closed, with Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk urging parents and carers to collect their children when it is safe to do so. Schools will open tomorrow – if it is safe for the school to do so – for children of essential workers only, but students should remain at home wherever possible.
It comes after much of south east Queensland was hit by severe weather again this morning, with authorities urging people to stay home if possible.
Landsborough and Beerwah were battered this morning, with the storm cell causing extensive damage throughout the region with a number of roads impacted by fallen powerlines and debris including Steve Irwin Way, Old Landsborough Road, Old Gympie Road, Pinelands Road and Whites Road.
Large hail caused damage to homes, heavy rain has caused flash flooding and high winds have caused trees to fall, with Energex currently attending to at least 80 fallen powerlines. Telstra towers have been affected and emergency services are working to restore communications.
Sunshine Coast Local Disaster Management Group Chair Mayor Mark Jamieson said with the ground already soaked and waterways still swollen after last week’s deluge, the continued heavy rainfall was dangerous and had the potential to cause flash flooding.
“An emergency alert has been issued and I ask people to follow its messaging, primarily about staying off the roads,” Mayor Jamieson said.
“It is not worth the risk and, remember, if it’s flooded, forget it.
“The Bureau of Meteorology has advised more severe weather may be on the way so we need to be prepared and know where we can get help.”
The decision to close schools was made earlier today given the very dangerous and unpredictable weather event occurring throughout the region.
Education Minister Grace Grace said the safety of students and staff was paramount, with the weather of serious concern.
“The message is stay off the roads and stay at home unless you really need to be out,” said Minister Grace.
“Please listen into your local media stations and follow BOM warnings so you have all of the latest information, and stay safe.”
Information on Queensland state school closures can be found at https://closures.qld.edu.au/
Other schools will make local decisions depending on specific circumstances; parents and carers are advised to please look out for updates directly from their child’s school.
Where to go to for help and information:
- For life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000).
- For help in storms and floods, including sandbag requests, call the SES on 13 25 00.
- For information on interruptions to council services, visit council’s website.
- For road closures and other weather-related updates, visit Disaster Hub.
- For regular weather updates, you can also tune into your local radio station.
- To report a council related urgent matter or emergency, call (07) 5475 7272 or 1300 007 272.
- For weather updates, visit the Australian Government’s Bureau of Meteorology website.
- Download the Bureau of Meteorology app on your phone and mobile device.