Flooding expected in Ipswich with Wivenhoe Dam releases
27 February 2022
Ipswich residents in low lying areas are encouraged to prepare for flooding, as days of heavy rain combine with Wivenhoe Dam releases which commenced at 4am today.
New flood modelling available on the Ipswich City Council Disaster Dashboard includes the impact of the Wivenhoe Dam releases and shows that low lying areas of Goodna will be significantly inundated as well as some areas in Karalee and Barellan Point.
Council have been working with the Queensland Police Service and SES to commence the notification and evacuation of the impacted homes.
An updated emergency alert was sent throughout the Ipswich Local Government Area earlier this morning that included new forecast flood and inundation conditions.
Local Disaster Management Group Chairperson Mayor Teresa Harding said council modelling has raised concerns water could enter properties near the upper Brisbane River and its tributaries such as the Bremer River.
“Heavy rain has continued to fall overnight, and we are seeing higher levels of inundation to low lying areas across our city, especially in parts of Goodna and Bundamba where some residents needed to be evacuated in the middle of the night,” Mayor Harding said.
“Further flooding in lower areas of Bremer River and Warrill Creek are possible, depending on further Wivenhoe Dam releases and rain today.
“I urge residents in all low lying areas to act now, particularly in the Goodna area, if they have not done so already.
“If there is a threat to you or your home, please don’t wait to act. Gather any essential items such as important documents, food and water and medications.”
An evacuation centre opened yesterday at the Ipswich Showgrounds to assist residents who are at risk of flooding.
“If you are unable to stay with family or friends, you are welcome at the Ipswich Showgrounds,” Mayor Harding said.
Mayor Harding said free sandbags would be available from 8am today at council’s Raceview Depot on Briggs Road and Rosewood Depot on Mill Street.
Over the past 24 hours, up to 200mm has fallen in the Bremer Catchment.
Local Disaster Management Group Deputy Chairperson Councillor Kate Kunzelmann said if it’s flooded forget it.
“We would like to encourage people to stay at home and off the roads unless absolutely necessary,” Cr Kunzelmann said.
“If you do need to move to the evacuation centre, do not attempt to drive through floodwaters.
“If it is unsafe to make your way to the showgrounds, seek higher ground, and if you feel that your life is threatened call triple zero (000).”
Local Disaster Management Group Deputy Chairperson Councillor Russell Milligan advised residents to continue to monitor council’s Disaster Dashboard.
“Council and emergency services are working to assist the community,” Cr Milligan said.
“Stay informed by listening to the radio, check the Bureau of Meteorology Warnings website and find local flooding information on council’s Disaster Dashboard, Facebook page or call the council call centre on (07) 3810 6666”
Mayor Harding said people wanting to help should check in on their neighbours, friends and family.
“While we appreciate the generosity from many locals who are simply wanting to help, please donate money to GIVIT instead of bringing physical items, such as clothing and food, to the Ipswich Showgrounds,” Mayor Harding said.
“National online charity GIVIT is coordinating requests for assistance at this time to best help those people impacted by flooding.”
To donate and offer assistance visit GIVIT.org.au/storms-and-flooding