In an effort to enhance road safety during extreme weather, Brisbane has installed Automated Flooded Road Warning Systems (AFRWS) in flood-prone areas across western suburbs, such as Kenmore, Kenmore Hills, Pullenvale, and Brookfield.
Read: Financial Assistance Opens for Brisbane Residents Affected by Tropical Cyclone Alfred
This initiative is designed to prevent motorists from accidentally entering floodwaters, particularly during severe rainfall events like those caused by Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
How AFRWS Work
The AFRWS are equipped with highly visible LED road signs that activate automatically when water levels exceed a pre-set safety threshold. These signs display warnings such as “ROAD CLOSED AHEAD” or “ROAD CLOSED – NO ENTRY,” ensuring drivers are alerted in real time.
Placed strategically at road approaches, the signs remain visible both day and night. Some locations also feature cameras for remote monitoring, allowing authorities to assess conditions and respond as needed. The systems are solar-powered, offering continued functionality even in areas without mains power and improving resilience during extreme weather events that may cause power outages.
AFRWS Locations in West Brisbane
Several key roads in western Brisbane have been identified as high-risk areas and are now equipped with AFRWS, including:
- Brookfield: Boscombe Road, Rafting Ground Road (Moggill Creek)
- Upper Brookfield: Upper Brookfield Road (Moggill Creek)
- Pullenvale: Grandview Road, Lancing Street (Pullen Creek)
- Pinjarra: Pinjarra Road (Farm Creek)
- Kholo: Kholo Bridge (Brisbane River)
- Kenmore Hills: Gap Creek Road (Gap Creek)
These locations are prone to flooding due to their proximity to major creeks and waterways, making AFRWS a crucial safety measure.
The Impact of Tropical Cyclone Alfred
The recent arrival of Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025 reinforced the necessity of such systems. The cyclone brought intense rainfall and strong winds, leading to widespread flooding, road closures, and power failures. Several roads in western Brisbane were temporarily submerged, but the AFRWS helped alert motorists in real time, preventing accidents and vehicle strandings.
Looking Ahead
Brisbane continues to assess additional locations for AFRWS installation, ensuring more flood prone roads are equipped with these life-saving warnings. As climate change increases the frequency of extreme weather events, proactive measures like AFRWS will remain critical in safeguarding both motorists and infrastructure.
With ongoing investment in flood prevention and road safety, Brisbane’s western suburbs are better prepared for future storms and heavy rainfall events. This initiative demonstrates the city’s commitment to leveraging technology to protect its communities and ensure safer travel during unpredictable weather.
Published 19-March-2025