Tag: cyclone alfred

Toombul Creek Clears, Traffic Resumes After Brisbane Floods Recede

Photo Credit: QLD Traffic

Following days of intense rainfall and widespread flooding, Toombul Creek has now cleared, allowing vehicles to once again pass through the area. This is a sign of improving conditions across Brisbane’s suburban tributaries.

Read: Be Ready, Nundah: How to Protect Your Home and Family from Cyclone Alfred

Floodwaters Recede, Roads Reopen

Toombul Creek
Photo Credit: QLD Traffic

After a prolonged period of heavy rainfall associated with the tail end of the Alfred system, water levels in Toombul Creek have significantly subsided. This improvement has enabled the reopening of roads in the vicinity, which were previously impassable due to flooding. Residents report that while the initial deluge caused substantial disruption, the rapid clearing of the creek has brought much-needed relief.

The area surrounding the demolished Toombul shopping centre, which suffered severe damage in the 2022 floods, was submerged again. The rapid clearing of the water is a welcome change. The constant rainfall over two days led to widespread flooding, with numerous roads closed and fallen trees obstructing travel. The challenges included power outages and intersections without working traffic lights, making essential travel difficult. However, the clearance of Toombul Creek indicates a positive shift in the overall situation.

Community Relief and Recovery

Toombul Creek
Photo Credit: AaronLiang/ Facebook

The reopening of roads around Toombul Creek has been met with relief from the local community. Residents who had been experiencing disruptions to their daily routines are now able to resume normal activities. The ability for cars to pass through the area again is a significant step towards recovery, reflecting the community’s resilience in the face of adverse weather conditions.

While the initial flooding caused displacement and inconvenience, the swift receding of the waters has allowed a return to normalcy. One resident noted that while they were concerned that this flood would be as bad as the 2022 floods, the water had cleared much faster than expected. The speed of the water receding has allowed access to many people’s homes again.

Read: How Brisbane Airport’s Parking Rates Compare Internationally

Remaining Vigilant

Despite the improved conditions, residents are reminded to remain vigilant and stay informed about potential weather changes. The recent flooding serves as a reminder of Brisbane’s suburban areas’ vulnerability to heavy rainfall and the importance of preparedness. While Toombul Creek has cleared, ongoing monitoring of weather patterns and water levels is crucial to ensure the continued safety and well-being of the community.

Published Date 11-March-2025

Be Ready, Nundah: How to Protect Your Home and Family from Cyclone Alfred

As Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches Brisbane, residents, especially those in flood-prone suburbs like Nundah, must take immediate action to safeguard their homes and families. 

Read: What’s Next for Toombul Shopping Centre? Mirvac Announces Redevelopment Plans

Alfred, currently a Category 2 system, is expected to hit Queensland around Thursday or early Friday, bringing damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding.

Preparation Steps for Cyclone Alfred

  1. Assemble an Emergency Kit: Prepare a ‘grab and go’ kit with essential supplies to last five to seven days. This should include non-perishable food, water, medications, important documents, cash, and supplies for pets. Given the potential for power outages, include a battery-operated radio, torch, spare batteries, and power banks for charging mobile devices.
  2. Secure Your Property: Remove or secure any loose items around your property that could become projectiles in strong winds. Clean gutters and check drainage systems to ensure they are clear of debris, reducing the risk of water accumulation and potential flooding.
  3. Utilise Sandbags: Sandbags can help reduce the impact of flooding on your property. While they won’t stop water entirely, they can minimise water entry. Sandbags are available at several Brisbane locations, Darra, Lota, Morningside, Newmarket, and Zillmere. The nearest one to Nundah is the one at Newmarket, located at the SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road.
Photo credit: BCC (As of 4 March 2025)

Ensure you check your vehicle’s weight restrictions before loading sandbags, as each weighs approximately 18–20 kilograms.

Photo credit: BCC (As of 4 March 2025)
  1. Protect Vehicles: Avoid parking cars on the street, especially in areas prone to flooding or under trees and power lines. If possible, move vehicles to higher ground or secure garages to prevent damage from rising waters or debris. Brisbane officials have warned of higher-than-predicted high tides in foreshore and riverside areas from Saturday, 1 March, to Wednesday, 5 March 2025.
  2. Stay Informed: Keep updated with the latest weather forecasts and warnings through official channels such as the Bureau of Meteorology or Council’s emergency dashboard. A battery-operated radio can be invaluable during power outages. Follow advice from local authorities and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.

Nundah’s Flood Risk

Nundah has a documented history of flooding, particularly due to its proximity to Nundah Creek. Back in February 2022, the Toombul Shopping Centre suffered extensive flood damage, leading to a decision not to reopen. Business owners were notified in a letter stating that restoring the centre to its previous condition was neither practical nor desirable.

Photo credit: Jared Pollack/Facebook

As of February 2025, the shopping centre has been fully demolished, with Mirvac announcing plans to redevelop it into a mixed-use precinct. However, since the area is prone to flooding, any new plans must include strong flood resilience measures to avoid a repeat of the past.

Council has conducted detailed flood studies for the Nundah Creek area to manage and mitigate flood risks. Residents can access the Flood Awareness Map to understand their property’s flood likelihood and prepare accordingly.

Impact on Brisbane Airport

Photo credit: Brisbane Airport/Google Maps

Brisbane Airport has not yet announced flight cancellations, but there is a possibility of disruptions if conditions worsen.

Passengers with upcoming flights should monitor airline updates and Brisbane Airport’s official channels for real-time information. As always, safety is a priority—if roads leading to the airport become flooded, it is advised not to attempt to travel. “If it’s flooded, forget it.”

Community Resources and Support

Brisbane offers resources to assist residents in preparing for severe weather events. Free green waste drop-off is available at all four resource recovery centres (RRCs) until further notice, with extended opening hours from 6:30 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. to aid in preparation efforts. 

However, kerbside collection has been suspended due to the significant risk posed by Cyclone Alfred. Residents are advised to secure any items placed on the kerb as soon as possible to prevent hazards during the cyclone.

Read: Net-Zero Achieved: Brisbane Airport Reaches New Heights with Emissions-Free Operations

Final Considerations

Preparation is crucial in mitigating the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred. By taking proactive steps, residents of Nundah and the greater Brisbane area can enhance their safety and resilience against the impending severe weather. Remember, if it’s flooded, forget it—never attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters.

Published 3-March-2025