Redland City Mayor Karen Williams has urged residents to take care during the predicted Australia Day weekend “big wet”.

Councillor Williams said residents should be prepared for localised flash flooding, storm surge causing higher than usual tides and winds up to 90km/hour.

“The Bureau of Meteorology predicts damaging winds, heavy rain, abnormally high tides and dangerous surf conditions across the Redlands and south-east Queensland,” she said.

“As we will be subjected to monsoonal-like conditions, creeks, waterways and stormwater drains are likely to be carrying torrents of water.

“These conditions can be tempting, especially for adventurous young people, but they are very dangerous.

“I urge all parents to remind their children of these dangers and encourage all to stay away from flooded drains and creeks.

“Those using the beaches on NSI – whether four-wheel-driving or camping – need to be extra careful due to predicted tidal surges and possible beach erosion.”

Cr Williams said all Redlands’ residents should take additional precautions by ensuring their stormwater drains are not blocked, so the likelihood of floodwaters backing up is reduced.

“There have been too many tragedies during this type of weather and floods in the past, so please act with caution during such weather events,” she said.

“Coming out of a dry period, it is also timely to remind drivers to change their driving habits to suit wet conditions.”

Cr Williams also recommended that boat-owners take precautions.

“Predictions are for winds of up to 90km/hour, so ensure your boat is secure, and that anything on deck is tightly secured,” she said.

The Redlands Local Disaster Management Group has this morning moved to ‘Stage 1 – Alert’ in preparation for this weekend’s heavy rain and the possibility of flash flooding and road closures.

This means council and emergency services staff are prepared and on standby.

Emergency Management Queensland advises that people should:

• Move their car under cover or away from trees.
• Secure loose outdoor items.
• Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.
• Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.
• Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters.
• Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
• Check your property regularly for erosion or inundation by sea water, and if necessary raise goods and electrical items.
• For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.

Additionally, Surf Life Saving Australia recommends that you stay out of the water and stay well away from surf-exposed areas.

Residents are encouraged to listen to 612 ABC Radio and monitor Council’s website (www.redland.qld.gov.au), Facebook and Twitter.