Bureau of Meteorology is expecting major flooding at Brian Pastures on Barambah Creek and moderate flooding occurring at Walla on the Lower Burnett River on Saturday.
Heavy rainfall with totals of 100-300 mm was recorded over parts of the lower Burnett River catchment in the 24 hours to 9am Saturday, with isolated heavier rainfall totals of 390-460mm. Further localised heavy rainfall is possible for the rest of Saturday.
River level rises are occurring along parts of Barambah Creek and the lower Burnett River.
Barker and Barambah Creeks:
River level rises and areas of moderate to major flooding are occurring along parts of Barambah Creek and its tributaries downstream from Bjelke-Petersen Dam.
The Barambah Creek at Stonelands is currently at 1.06 metres (below minor) and steady. River level rises are expected over the weekend but at this stage the river level is likely to remain below the minor flood level (8.50 m).
There are currently no river level observations on Barambah Creek at Brian Pastures but based on upstream river levels, the river level at Brian Pastures is expected to be above the moderate flood level (8.00) and rising. The Barambah Creek at Brian Pastures is expected to exceed the major flood level (9.00 m) Saturday afternoon, with a major flood peak likely late in the day.
Burnett River downstream of Mundubbera to Paradise Dam:
River level rises are expected downstream of Gayndah as floodwater from tributaries enters the Burnett River.
Bjelke Petersen Dam overflowing:
Bjelke-Petersen Dam is 100.6 per cent capacity and spilling excess water due to rainfall in the catchment.
If downstream of the dam, expect increased river flows and remember if it’s flooded, forget it.
Burnett River downstream of Paradise Dam:
Minor to moderate flooding is occurring along parts of the Burnett River downstream of Paradise Dam. Major flooding is occurring along some of the smaller tributaries.
The Burnett River at Walla is currently 8.92 metres and rising, with moderate flooding. Further small rises are likely during Saturday. The river level is likely to remain above the moderate flood level (8.00 m) for much of the day before easing slowly. However, renewed rises are expected during Sunday into Monday as floodwater from further upstream arrives, with another moderate flood peak possible. Predictions will be refined as upstream peaks are observed.
The Burnett River at Bundaberg is currently at 1.82 metres (below minor) and rising with the tide. A below minor peak (minor flood level is 3.50 m) is likely in the Burnett River at Bundaberg overnight Saturday into Sunday.
Flood Safety Advice:
Remember: If it’s flooded, forget it. For flood emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500. For life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Current emergency information is available at www.qld.gov.au/alerts
