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The Bureau of Meteorology has advised that severe weather in the form of damaging winds and heavy rainfall leading to flooding will continue to affect northern Tasmania until late on Thursday.

SES volunteers in northern Tasmania are currently undertaking preparedness works ahead of expected heavy rainfall. Sandbags are being filled, ready to be deployed to members of the public who require them.

Sandbags are available for collection from SES Headquarters in Youngtown for people at risk of flash flooding. Anyone requiring sandbags can call SES 132500 to make the necessary arrangements.

An SES crew is currently working in the Kings Meadows business district offering sandbags to business owners and providing flooding advice.

“The Kings Meadows area is a known area for flash flooding and there is a risk that flooding may occur within the next 24hrs. Preparing for these events is a shared responsibility, and by working together we can reduce the damage,” said SES Regional Manager Mhairi Revie.

Ms Revie said that the flash flooding risk for the north of the state means that people should ‘get flood ready’. Members of the public at risk of flooding are encouraged to contact SES to make arrangements to collect sandbags.

“These preparedness efforts will help reduce the damage of flooding should it occur,” she said.

The State Emergency Service advise that people should:

• Supervise all children closely.
• Check that family and neighbours are aware of warnings.
• Manage pets and livestock.
• Where safe – clear drains and gutters on premises prior to severe weather arriving.
• Be prepared in case of power outages.
• Do not walk, ride or drive through flood waters.
• Drive to the conditions
• Beware of damaged trees and power lines and take care when driving.
• Ensure that drains and gutters are clear of debris and are running freely
• Listen to the ABC radio or check www.ses.tas.gov.au for further advice.

For flood and storm emergency assistance, contact the SES on 132 500.