Minor flooding expected in Queanbeyan

An SES spokesman said the weather is being caused by a low pressure trough tracking across the state, and is set to bring large volumes of rain to the region.

Googong Dam is currently at 100 per cent, meaning all excess water into the dam will go over the spill way into the below Queanbeyan River system.

We are expecting river levels to rise steadily across the day before peaking at minor flood levels in the afternoon. The river is expected to peak at between 5-6 meters.

At this stage there is no danger to Queanbeyan or residents.

“We are simply taking the opportunity to alert residents to the inconvenience that minor flooding will bring,” the spokesman said.

“We are expecting the Oaks Estate and Morrisett low level bridges to close during the day. This will cause significant traffic congestion into and out of Queanbeyan for some time.”

The Queanbeyan SES Unit has started to prepare for the coming weather, with volunteers on alert. At this stage, the only additional resources called in have been for extra rescue operators.

“As always we urge everyone to stay out of floodwater,” public information officer Brent Hunter said.

“Those who choose to ignore the warning could be making a fatal error, floods are unforgiving and take no prisoners. So stay out.”

For the assistance of the NSW SES call 132 500, always call 000 if life threatening.