Stay out of flood waters

Published: 05 January 2021. (Note: information was correct at date of publication but may have since been changed or superseded.)

Residents are reminded of the risk of entering flood waters after flood camera footage from the McKinnon Creek Detention Basin in Edmonton showed young children just centimetres away from being swept into a large culvert.

Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group Terry James said the children would have been seriously injured, if not killed, if they had lost their footing.

“The photos are quite alarming, actually,” Cr James said. “While this may look innocent enough, kids just having fun, there’s a real and serious risk for anyone entering flood waters, creeks and drains.

“As we have seen over the past 48 hours, the wet season can bring sudden downpours leading to significant amounts of fast-flowing water rushing into our water systems.

“Residents, especially children, playing in or near flood waters, can be quickly swept away, be injured by debris or drown if they become trapped.

“What starts off as some hijinks can be fatal.”

Once spotted on the flood cameras about 4pm yesterday, two groups of about a dozen children and young adults were moved on by Council officers.

While heavy rain associated with ex-Tropical Cyclone Imogen is tracking south of the region, there is still the chance of isolated storm activity for the rest of the week.

Council crews are currently clearing fallen or damaged trees and inspecting drains and roads.

Cr James said that while there hasn’t been any major road damage, potholes will continue to appear over coming days, and residents should drive with care.

Residents can quickly report damage to infrastructure via the Report a Problem feature of the My Cairns app, or by ringing Customer Service on 1300 69 22 47.

Caption: Children (circled) just centimetres from being swept into a large culvert. The group of children in the middle of the photo could also be easily swept away in the fast-flowing water.