Residents at Bluewater should leave now

Residents at Bluewater should leave now.

If residents cannot leave safely, go to higher ground.

Water is rising fast and there will be dangerous and life-threatening flooding. Your life may be at risk.

If you do not leave it may become too dangerous for emergency services to rescue you.

Townsville Local Disaster Management Group Chair Andrew Robinson said residents must leave now.

“Residents at Bluewater should evacuate immediately,” Cr Robinson said.

“Do not wait for further advice or emergency services to come to your door.

“Do not stay in your home. If you do not have a safe place to go to, make your way to an evacuation centre immediately.”

Evacuation centres are open.

Bluewater Community Centre at 14 Forestry Road, Bluewater is open.

Heatley Secondary College at 321 Fulham Road, Heatley is open. Pets are not permitted.

Townsville Sports Precinct (Red Track) at 24 Burke Street, North Ward is open. Pets are permitted, but animals must be in portable carriers or crates large enough that they can stand, turn around and lie down. You must provide dog food, leashes, and water bowls.

If you have very young children, pack enough nappies for up to five days, wipes, bottles, formula or baby food. Plan to not have a fridge or microwave.

If you do not drive, call your support service, a family member or a friend to organise transport.

If it’s flooded, forget it. Do not drive through flood waters.

To stay up to date visit the Emergency Management and Disaster Dashboard, listen to local radio or phone 13 48 10.