Summer rain on its way

With a significant amount of rain predicted for the first weekend of summer, the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) is urging Canberrans to prepare today.

“A significant cold front is forecast to sweep across New South Wales and the ACT this weekend. This system is likely to generate widespread heavy rain,” ESA Commissioner Dominic Lane said.

“At 11:00am BOM raised their warnings to include Canberra. We urge Canberrans to prepare now to avoid injury or property damage.

“It’s also important to remember that the recent rain means the ground in some areas is already saturated, which in turn increases the risk of flooding and the likelihood of large trees falling over during windy conditions.”

The ACT ESA is calling on Canberrans to take care not to drive, walk, ride or play in or near flood waters or stormwater drains.

“Please drive to conditions. If it’s flooded, forget it. Do not attempt to cross a flooded road, bridge or causeway and if driving becomes too difficult pull over safely to the side of the road and wait until conditions improve”, Commissioner Lane said.

“The ACT Government is well prepared ahead of this year’s storm and bushfire season, and we ask the community to take responsibility for their own preparations and to look out for each other,” Commissioner Lane concluded.

For help in floods or storms call 132 500. In a life threating emergency call Triple Zero (000). For more tips on how you can prepare for a flood or storm visit the emergency services website esa.act.gov.au.ACT_ESA_Media_Release_-_Summer_rain_on_its_way