Sandbags ahead of incoming downpour

AS THE region prepares for extreme weather over the coming days, councils have begun distributing sandbags to concerned residents.

Bureau of Meteorology meteorologist Helen Reid said the Toowoomba and Lockyer Valley region could experience an increase in rainfall from today, however not as much as other areas of the state.

“The Lockyer Valley may get 5 to 10mm more of rain compared to Toowoomba, but not much will spill further into the Downs,” she said.

“On Saturday we should start to see a decrease in rainfall.”

BOM has forecast possibly 35 to 60mm of rain in Gatton, while Toowoomba may get 25 to 45mm.

The Lockyer Valley Regional Council has advised residents that there is empty sandbags and sand available near Laidley Railway Station on Pike St, Railway St in Grantham, Biggs Rd in Withcott, and the Gatton showgrounds.

Meanwhile, Toowoomba Regional Council has made sand available on Duke St in Jondaryan, on the corner of Mocatta and Cooke St in Goombungee, Lorrimer St in Oakey, Railway St in Pittsworth, and Timber St in Crows Nest.

Residents are reminded to visit their respective council’s Disaster Dashboard websites to stay up to date with weather alerts and road conditions, or visit thechronicle.com.au.

Remember, if it’s flooded, forget it.