What’s Happening?
Toowoomba Regional Council is encouraging residents and businesses to prepare for storm season by understanding how heavy rainfall and overland flow could affect their properties.
In advice published on 15 October 2026, Council urged the community to check local drainage conditions, identify potential risks and make preparations before severe weather arrives.
Overland flow occurs when rainwater travels across the ground towards drains, creeks or rivers. During intense rainfall, it can affect streets, parks, backyards and other low-lying areas.
Council’s Transport and Drainage portfolio spokesperson, Councillor Trevor Manteufel, said understanding local water movement was an important part of preparing for storms.
“Overland flow can affect places well away from creeks and rivers, which is why it is important for residents and business should take the time to understand their local risk,” Cr Manteufel said.
Why It Matters
Heavy rainfall can create problems beyond areas traditionally associated with creek or river flooding.
As water moves across the landscape, it may affect access to streets, public spaces and private properties.
Council is encouraging residents to consider how these conditions could affect their daily activities and surrounding neighbourhoods.
“A few simple actions before heavy rain arrives can help reduce impacts. This includes keeping drains, gutters and natural flow paths clear, maintaining drainage around your property and direct water away from buildings where possible.
“Preparing for severe weather is a shared responsibility. Taking the time to understand local conditions, make a plan and stay informed can help people respond more effectively when severe weather occurs.”
Local Impact
For households and businesses across the Toowoomba Region, storm preparation includes checking how rainwater moves around buildings and nearby streets.
Residents are encouraged to maintain drainage around their properties and identify areas where water could accumulate during intense rainfall.
Council also recommends discussing emergency preparations with household members or staff and checking on neighbours who may need assistance.
Key Points
- Property awareness: Overland flow can affect locations away from waterways, making it important to understand risks around homes and businesses.
- Emergency planning: Households and businesses should review their plans before severe weather develops.
- Local information: Council provides preparedness resources and updates through its overland flow webpage and Disaster Dashboard.
Zoom In
Council has outlined five practical steps residents and businesses can take ahead of storm season:
- Understand local risks: Check how flooding and overland flow could affect your property and surrounding area.
- Clear drainage paths: Keep drains, gutters and overland flow paths free from obstructions.
- Maintain property drainage: Where possible, direct water away from buildings.
- Review emergency plans: Make sure household members or staff understand what to do during severe weather.
- Stay informed: Subscribe to Council’s Disaster Dashboard for alerts and updates.
These measures focus on preparation before heavy rainfall begins.
Zoom Out
Council’s advice highlights the importance of understanding how rainfall moves through built-up and low-lying areas.
Unlike flooding associated with rivers and creeks, overland flow can affect locations that residents may not immediately recognise as vulnerable.
The council is encouraging the community to prepare early rather than waiting for severe weather to arrive.
What To Look For Next?
Residents and businesses can review Council’s overland flow information and preparedness resources.
They can also subscribe to Council’s Disaster Dashboard for weather-related alerts and updates.
As storm season approaches, Council is encouraging residents to review their plans, discuss preparations with others and remain alert to changing conditions.