Drivers urged to stay off the roads as weather intensifies
With severe winds and heavy rain expected to rapidly increase across South East Queensland over the next 48 hours, RACQ is urging residents to stay safe and keep off the roads.
RACQ Deputy CEO Glenn Toms said now is not the time for motorists to be on the road with the category-two weather system predicted to cause cyclonic winds, storm surge and flooding for large parts of the region.
“Tropical Cyclone Alfred is a significant weather event which will continue to impact roads and cause dangerous driving conditions across the south east, so please reconsider the need to be on the roads at all during this time,” Mr Toms said.
“These weather systems can be unpredictable, and while the cyclone is currently expected to make landfall tomorrow and into the weekend, we don’t know how long it will last, the extent of damage, or the severity of flooding it will cause.
“If you must head out, please be extra vigilant and drive to the conditions. You can also check your route before leaving home by visiting the road conditions website."
Mr Toms also reminded Queenslanders of the dangers of driving in flood waters.
“We see it all too often, where people risk their lives and the lives of others by attempting to drive through flooded roads,” he said.
“It doesn’t matter how good you are at driving or whether you have a four-wheel-drive, you cannot control or see what is under the water.
“If you come across floodwaters, be prepared to turn around. It can take as little as 15 centimetres of water for a car to be washed off the road or get into your engine and cause it to stall, so please remember if it’s flooded, forget it’.”
Mr Toms said RACQ continues to monitor the situation closely and is ready to support members who may be impacted by the extreme weather conditions.
“We expect this to be a significant weather event and we’re preparing our resources to respond accordingly.
“Events of this scale can have devastating impacts, and it’s important for Queenslanders to stay across the advice from authorities.
“We have scaled up our teams on the phone and online to help members lodge their insurance claims, and will deploy additional resources such as assessors and builders to be on the ground to support the recovery as soon as it is safe.
“Our roadside assistance patrols will also remain on standby to respond when it is safe to do so.
“RACQ members right across South East Queensland can be assured that we are here to help and will be with you every step of this event.”
Click here for more information this storm season.
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