Police are reminding Queenslanders not to put their lives at risk by driving through flood waters, with more heavy rainfall expected across large parts of the north in the coming week.
Authorities are currently monitoring a Tropical Low sitting off Queensland's eastern coastline which has potential to bring more widespread heavy rain.
Acting Chief Superintendent Townsville District, Dean Cavanagh urged motorists to check road conditions before travelling and never drive through floodwaters.
"Floodwater is extremely dangerous, as it's impossible to judge the depth, current or damage to roads beneath the surface," A/Chief Superintendent Cavanagh said.
"The message is simple – if it is flooded forget it.
"Attempting to drive through flood waters endangers the lives of motorists and emergency responders."
Police and other emergency crews have been part of multiple rescues from floodwaters over the past week, including one west of Cairns on Monday January 5, where a man was winched to safety.
Emergency services were called around 8.20am to Leadingham Creek Road in Dimbulah following reports a campervan was caught in floodwaters near Wolfram Road.
The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, a 79-year-old man, was winched from the top of the vehicle by the QGAir Rescue 510 helicopter due to the floodwater level.
Meanwhile, just before midday on Tuesday 6 January, emergency crews were called to Camooweal-Urandangi Road, Barkly, near Mount Isa, after a vehicle became stranded in floodwaters.
Multiple agencies worked together to recover a man, a woman, and a dog safely from floodwaters. All were transported by helicopter back to Mount Isa.
Police have since charged a 25-year-old Northern Territory man with driving without due care and attention.
He is expected to appear before the Mount Isa Magistrates Court at a later date.
Police are reminding drivers that it is an offence to drive through floodwater when a sign is erected and motorists may be issued with infringement notices for careless driving.
A car can be swept away in just 15cm of water and vehicles can lose power if driven in floodwater, making escape extremely difficult.
Locals should drive to the conditions, slow down, and take extra precautions when travelling in flood impacted areas.
Drivers in rural and regional locations should also expect livestock on roads as animals move to higher ground. Drivers are urged not to sound horns or attempt to drive through livestock and to give animals space.
Additionally, parents are urged not to let their children go playing in floodwater, as it poses serious hidden dangers.
Floodwater can conceal hazards such as drains, sharp objects and strong currents.
"The water could also be contaminated with sewage, bacteria and debris which can cause serious illness," A/Chief Superintendent Cavanagh said.
"Additionally, animals including snakes, rodents and spiders may also be present, even in shallow water."
Police urge parents and carers to supervise children closely and ensure they stay away from overflowing creeks, drains and floodwater.
For the latest information about severe weather in your area visit your local council's disaster dashboard. Find your local dashboard here: https://www.qra.qld.gov.au/recovery-hub/disaster-dashboards-queensland
For assistance with a life-threatening situation phone Triple Zero (000) immediately.
For assistance with non-life-threatening situations - such as help with a damaged roof or storm damage - phone SES on 132 500.
Keep up to date with the latest weather advice at Queensland Warnings Summary (bom.gov.au).
Information about preparing for, or responding to severe weather can also be found at the following sources:
Traffic and travel information – 13 19 40 or qldtraffic.qld.gov.au
RACQ Road Conditions 1300 130 595 or roadconditions.racq.com.au
