Surat | 5 Feb 2012
There is now water over the bridge into Surat with the Balonne River currently 11.436m and rising rapidly.
The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted it may reach as high as 12m today. Residents are advised to remain alert but calm. Council will continue to monitor flood levels and advise of any changes.
In Mitchell, the Maranoa River at 10.30am was down to 7.95m and falling fast. Currently 396 buildings have had preliminary flood damage assessment; of this number, 281 have been affected by water inundation. This assessment will continue throughout today.
The Bungil Creek in Roma is 6.9m and falling. Assessment of flood damaged properties will take place today.
There are approximately 290 evacuees in Mitchell and 48 at Roma. Food and medical resupplies are still taking place via air today.
Maranoa Mayor Robert Loughnan said clean up efforts have begun in Roma and will start in Mitchell once the water has receded further.
“Water levels in Roma receded further throughout the night and residents today begin the task of checking the damage to their property and cleaning out their homes,” Cr Loughnan said.
“We have a huge job ahead of us, but have received overwhelming support from the community this morning to kick start the initial clean up efforts in Roma.
“We are currently in the process of making arrangements to bring out an additional volunteer work force for a wide scale clean up in Mitchell and Roma.”
The Warrego from Miles to Roma is open to vehicles under 5 tonne, however the section of highway from Roma to Mitchell is still closed to all vehicles.
000 – life threatening emergencies
SES – 132 500
Flood related emergencies
Maranoa Regional Council – 1300 007 662 or www.maranoa.qld.gov.au
Local road closures and sandbag assistance
Department Transport and Main Roads – www.131940.qld.gov.au
Road conditions (State controlled roads)
The next update will be issued at 6.00pm.
