Burdekin coastal communities evacuate due to Cyclone Debbie

Currently at a Category 2, Tropical Cyclone Debbie is predicted to reach Category 4 intensifying as it crosses the Queensland coast.

Based on current forecasts a significant storm tide is expected across the Burdekin Shire Council area.

Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services and Minister for Corrective Services, the Hon. Mark Ryan MP has declared a disaster situation under Section 64 of the Disaster Management Act 2003 and therefore a directed evacuation of these areas has commenced.

Properties located in the affected Burdekin areas, are advised to finalise cyclone preparations and packing of evacuation kit; and evacuate the coastal communities by Monday morning.

Burdekin Local Disaster Management Group Chair, Cr Lyn McLaughlin advised that residents should seek shelter with friends or family in safer places, to remove yourself from the Storm Tide risk.

“If you are unable to find alternative accommodation, the Place of Refuge at the Ayr Showgrounds will be opened on Monday 27 March, 2017 at 8am as a place of last resort.”

“The facility is intended as a short term shelter option and has very basic amenities.”

The place of refuge must be considered as the last option for residents that live in an evacuation zone or feel vulnerable, having exhausted all other shelter options and are unable to leave the warning area.

It is important to note that the facility has limited capacity and you will need to be aware of the following:

• You will need to be seated in a chair and will not be able to lie or sit on a mattress or stretcher;

• Domestic pets and other animals will not be allowed in the shelter and you will need to make other arrangements for sheltering your pets prior to the cyclone season. Note: assistance animals are permitted to enter the shelter and stay with owners;

• All personal belongings are to be kept within a backpack or small bag able to fit under a chair. You will need to be self-sufficient and support yourself and your family for the duration of the shelter period, so you need to include personal medications, essential non-perishable food and refreshments, identification papers and essential personal items. Anything deemed oversized and / or unnecessary will not be permitted into the shelter;

• There are no public cooking facilities, limited bathroom facilities, and limited medical support provided;

• No smoking is permitted;

• There will be limited transport and parking options – please follow direction of Council staff;

• When using the refuge, you may be in the facility for up to 18 hours or more. During these times the building will be “locked down” for a period when the cyclone is passing. To ensure the structural integrity of the building and the safety of occupants there will be NO ability to enter or leave the shelter while it is in “lock down”.