Residents are being reminded to be cautious when travelling along roads in low lying areas that may become inundated this time of the year by rainwater runoff and high tides.
Heavy rainfall over the past few days has seen some isolated inundation, generally related to blocked drains.
As is often the case when the region receives its first significant rain of the wet season, leaves, tree branches and other debris is washed into drains, causing blockages.
Council crews have cleared more than 40 blocked drains.
Unfortunately, Council officers have seen a number of illegal dumping incidents (mostly green waste such as palm fonds) in or near drains, which have blocked inlets.
Residents are urged to dispose of waste in a responsible manner. Illegal dumping is an offence and penalties apply.
If you now of a blocked drain site, please report it to Council via the My Cairns App, "report a problem" on the website or contact Council's customer service centre on 1300 692 247.
Beware of potholes
Motorists are also urged to take extra care as the rain is likely to cause the development of potholes.
It has been very dry and hot, and with the first rains of the wet season we usually see potholes appear.
Over time, as cars drive on the road, cracks will form in the asphalt.
When it rains water can enter these cracks and can cause the road to break up. As cars pass over that section of road, the problem can get worse and finally a pothole appears.
Council crews are monitoring roads and will work to patch potholes on a priority basis.
Any resident who notices a pothole in their street is encouraged to report it through the My Cairns app, via the website or contact Council's customer service centre on 1300 692 247.
Being informed is key
The recent rain serves as a timely reminder for residents to ensure they are monitoring local weather conditions, check their household emergency plan, and be familiar with the Cairns Disaster Dashboard.
Staying informed is one of the most important steps you can take to keep yourself and your family safe at this time of the year.
Residents need to be aware of two very different but equally dangerous risks to Carins Region:
- Flooding – freshwater coming from river and creek systems
- Storm surge – saltwater coming from the ocean.
Residents should take the time to learn about their storm surge zone, and also check flood maps to understand their risks.
Cairns Disaster Dashboard
During, before and after a weather emergency, the Cairns Disaster Group will issue official information including weather updates, evacuation advice and if shelters are open.
If there is a power outage, a battery powered radio and spare batteries will be crucial and should be part of your household emergency kit.
All emergency information from the Cairns Disaster Group is provided on the Cairns Disaster Dashboard.
The Cairns Disaster Dashboard brings together information from a wide range of sources including Council, the Bureau of Meteorology, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, Ergon, Telstra and the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
The dashboard also has information on storm surge inundations zones and evacuation routes, live feeds from traffic and flood cameras and an interactive map showing road closures, the location of fires and other hazards.
