motorists

Severe weather and flash floods are a dangerous reality of our summer storm season.

In fact, a number of people across Queensland died in the 2011 floods when their vehicles became caught in flood waters.

The dangers of flash floods on the Gold Coast are compounded by

• our tropical climate and significant summer storm activity
• network of five major rivers, 41 creeks, numerous canals and 2,000 kilometres of stormwater infrastructure
• rural areas with causeway crossings
• a growing population (the Gold Coast is one of the fastest growing areas in Australia)

Any flooded road can be deadly.

Hidden dangers of flooded roads and causeways include:

• being washed from a causeway – less than 60 centimetres of slow moving water can wash away any type of car, even a four wheel drive
• getting snagged in rising water by pot holes and submerged debris
• stalling in rising water
• collapsed causeways and roads washed away without warning.

If you get stuck or see someone else in difficulty in a flash flood, phone the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service on 000 immediately.

Most importantly: if the road's flooded, forget it. Don't drown, turn around.

Causeway on Springbrook Road, Coomera

For more information about being ready this storm season, visit Council's website.