Rockhampton prepares for biggest flood in 100 years
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Sunday, April 2, 2017
After the destruction of cyclone Debbie on Tuesday, residents in parts of Rockhampton are preparing for more flooding in days to come.The city in expecting the biggest flood in 100 years, as the Fitzroy River is predicted to peak at 9.5 metres.
Police Commissioner Ian Stewart has warned residents of the forthcoming floods and yesterday he advised everyone to start moving their property to higher ground for protection. As the river rises, many homes will be cut-off and become unaccessible by emergency services.
On Monday afternoon, the Fitzroy River is set to reach its peak of 8.5 metres, inundating the areas of and surrounding Berkersher, Depot Hill and Kawana. Rivers flowing into the Fitzroy River have already undergone major flooding.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Paluszczuk today announced a revised funding plan for flood affected areas that entitles every person to $150 or $750 to families in the wake of the cyclone and the midst of continuous flooding. The money is to be used for living essentials such as food and clothing.
This funding comes from an immediate hardship assistance being offered to residents who experienced power outages of fave days of longer. Power still remains unaccessible in many parts of the state. Attempts to regain power in Townsville and Mackay areas was today slowed due to the inability of trucks and required machinery to gain access across muddy fields and flood waters.
Today, over 33,000 people still remained without power, and supplies at local supermarkets and grocers are becoming short. Emergency services are continuing to set up evacuation centres and volunteers are providing food supplies to those most affected.
Tomorrow, it is understood that generators are to be set up to provide for residents currently without electricity. Access to properties via roads is still a major priority for emergency services, as the Fitzroy River peak is set for tomorrow and many residents are yet to evacuate due to restricted access in and out of some areas.