Thousands of residents have been stranded or isolated as heavy rain and floods inundate South East Queensland, cutting off major arterial roads in West Brisbane. Here’s an update on road closures and safe spaces in Kenmore, Upper Brookfield, Pullenvale, and nearby areas.
As of 6:00 a.m. Monday, 28 Feb 2022, roads in Bellbowrie and Moggill have been unpassable to motorists. Some areas are also isolated as large blocks of rock, as well as mud and water flow, have filled the streets.
Most stores, including essentials like the Pullenvalle Marketplace IGA or Coles in Moggill, are either closed or running with limited staff as workers can’t get through or risk being stranded on the roads.
“Seqwater began releases from Wivenhoe Dam from yesterday morning,” Cr Greg Adermann said. “The first releases downstream of Moggill will reach the city by the time of this morning’s high tide.”
Safe Space for the Stranded
Those stranded on the road but can get to Kenmore District Rugby Club on Hepworth Street are welcome to use the facilities, take a warm shower, recharge their devices, and warm up with food and drinks.
“Kenmore Bears is open for anyone in need of food, drink, shower facilities, somewhere to charge your devices or a safe warm space,” the club stated.
“Donations of towels and food are welcomed, as is anyone able to volunteer their time to assist in cooking/serving. Please feel free to come down to the Club and connect, to find help or to offer it. Please stay safe.”
Checking for Safe Roads
Whilst residents are advised to stay safe and dry at home, some may need to go out for food and other essentials or emergency supplies. They can track which roads are unpassable or safe as updated by the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
As of 28 Feb 2022 09:02 a.m., Mashall Lane in Kenmore is passable without delays. However, residents are advised to take precautions as the roads remain slippery.
Power Down in West Brisbane
Meanwhile, more than 800 residents in Kenmore and 150 homes in Upper Brookfield have been without power due to the weather event. Energex said they are working to restore the power back as soon as possible but delays could be expected as the rising waters threaten power substations and homes across the city.
Residents may check for outage and restoration updates on the Energex site.
“Remember; while your property or street may be high and dry, the electrical infrastructure that supplies you could be flooded,” Energex said. “While we try to localise de-energisations as much as possible to minimise the impact on everyone; however, safety must come first.”
For electrical safety concerns, especially damaged electrical infrastructure, residents may phone 13 19 62.