Highlighting the severity of the extreme rainfall event currently engulfing the south-east region of Queensland, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and the State Emergency Service have received nearly 1,000 calls for help in the last 24 hours.
That figure includes more than 40 rescue responses to people caught in floodwaters.
In what has become a rapidly unfolding sequence of emergencies, there have been a number of water related rescues and evacuations at many places.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises it has reached a point where they and SES volunteers will need to go house to house checking on the welfare of residents.
Minister for Police and Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Mark Ryan, said this was a time for everyone to take extra care to keep themselves, their loved ones and their neighbours safe.
“Our catchments are now so saturated, and with heavy rain continuing to fall, dangerous situations can develop very rapidly.
“Lives have already been lost, we don’t want to see any more tragedies.
“Now is not the time for unnecessary travel.
“Many roads are flooded, many roads are cut, and many roads have sustained damage from the deluge.
“Remember if it’s flooded, always forget it.
“We have seen water rescue incidents at a long list of locations including Dallarnil, Rocksberg, Tara, Wallaville, Cooroy, Anamoor Creek, Kagaru, Helidon, North Arm, Cooran and Esk to name a few.
“I urge everyone to stay up to date with the weather situation and warnings, whether it be on your phone, the radio or on-line.
“The worst is not over yet.
“Please stay safe.”
