Mayor Johnston urges residents to be prepared amid severe weather forecast

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a flood watch advising a very slow moving cold front is expected to bring heavy rainfall into northern parts of the state.

Rainfall up to 300mm is possible on the Western Tiers and the north eastern highlands from Wednesday evening until early Friday morning.

Widespread minor to moderate flooding is likely from Thursday with major flooding possible at some locations across Meander Valley. There is also a possibility of damaging winds.

“Given catchments are wet and dams are at or near capacity we can expect rivers will respond rapidly to this rainfall. We know from the 2016 floods that the impact could be widespread, so people should start preparing now”.

“While we will know more over the next day, we are starting to prepare for a major event in line with our Emergency Management Plan and advice from coordinating regional authorities including the SES,” Mayor Johnston said.

“Residents should also remember that floods are dangerous and not drive through or enter flooded areas. To borrow a phrase, if it’s flooded forget it.”

The Community Complex at Alveston Drive, Deloraine is Meander Valley’s the primary emergency evacuation site and will be opened if needed.

Council will also be closing the self-contained RV rest stops at Bracknell River Reserve and the Deloraine Racecourse by 5pm today.

“At this stage, residents should make preparations, including being ready to evacuate, move stock to higher ground, and given strong winds are likely, take steps to secure any loose items,” Mayor Johnston said.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed by listening to ABC radio and monitoring TasAlert at www.alert.tas.gov.au