You are here:
With a number of roads across the Warrumbungle Local Government Area (LGA) and beyond affected by flooding, stormwater and rain damaged roads, this is a reminder to motorists to be cautious on local roads. “We have already seen a number of close calls over the past year where vehicles have entered into flood waters and been washed away – thankfully no one has been hurt,” said Warrumbungle Shire Council Mayor, Councillor Ambrose Doolan. “Even if you are in a kitted out four-wheel-drive, driving through flood waters is never a good idea. Cars are replaceable, the people in them are not.” “Regardless of how well you know the roads and how experienced a driver you are, it is a general rule that cars and water don’t mix,” said Cr Doolan. Flood waters can hide all manner of obstacles under the murky waters. It is quite different to a normal off-road water crossing, and debris picked up and carried by the floodwaters can damage your vehicle enough to stop it dead. If you are stuck fast, then you're at the mercy of mother nature, and the water level might keep rising. “Flood waters are often fast-moving, and can easily pick up a car or four-wheel-drive and carry it away. The very nature of floodwaters is dynamic and constantly changing, which means it is much safer to never enter the water to begin with,” said Cr Doolan. Four wheel-drive owners should not rely on their vehicle having a decent factory wading depth (or even a snorkel fitted), there are plenty of examples of capable and accessorised four-wheel-drives being swept away by strong-flowing water. Finally, it is important to remember that emergency services are often stretched to their maximum capacity during flood events and other natural disasters. “While you might not want to take the long road home, remember: if emergency services are rescuing you, they're not with somebody who might not have had a choice, and really needs the help,” concluded Cr Doolan.
Click here to download the media release
Last Updated: 23 Sep 2022