Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has asked residents in Far North Queensland to continue to heed emergency services advice after Tropical Cyclone Ann was downgraded to a tropical low.
“Even as a tropical low, this system could still have an impact,” the Premier said.
“We’ve been advised the impact may be felt in communities from Ingham to Cape York, depending on its severity once the system makes landfall.
“That’s why it’s important to continue to listen to warnings and advice from authorities.”
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford said residents should use the next few hours to make sure their homes and families were ready.
“Even though the system is now a tropical low, it’s important to be prepared,” Mr Crawford said.
“Stock an emergency kit with essential supplies including food, water, a change of clothes, medications, first aid supplies, important documents, valuables, a battery-powered or wind up radio and sleeping gear.
“Prepare your yard by safely storing small items inside and tying down any large items such as swing sets and trampolines.
“Most importantly, tune in to your radio, monitor your social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter and listen to what authorities have to say.”
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Katarina Carroll said resources were on the ground to assist affected communities.
“We have deployed specialist crews, including swift water rescue firefighters and drone operators, to key locations ahead of the weather system making landfall,” Ms Carroll said.
“This is in addition to local QFES personnel, who are on standby to respond and assist as soon as it is safe.
“We ask residents in far north Queensland to do their bit as well.
“That means leaving nothing to chance; people need to take precautions to ride the storm out safely.
“Stay indoors, make sure your emergency kit is stocked and evacuation plan is current, clear your yard of items that may become projectiles when the wind picks up, keep a list of emergency contacts and maintain contact with your neighbours.”
Ms Carroll said locals and those travelling between Cooktown and Cape York should be wary of heavy rainfall and flooding in some areas.
“This system is expected to produce strong winds and very heavy rainfall, which could affect low-lying areas, creeks and rivers,” Ms Carroll said.
“Nobody should ever enter flooded creeks or causeways by road or on foot.
“Think about the consequences of your actions and don’t risk your life or the lives of your rescuers.
“If you need to evacuate, take the advice of emergency services personnel or enact your emergency plan and travel to a safe location you have identified ahead of time.”
For storm and flood assistance contact the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500 and in a life-threatening emergency call Triple Zero (000).
