Stay safe

I saw the Brisbane River break its banks this morning.

Stupidly, we (a friend and I) made an expedition to the State Library of Qld with our children. The State Library overlooks the river. We were inside but the view was of the river lapping onto the walkways.

Debris the size of tree trunks was floating down the muddied river. It was a surreal sight - one I will not forget too quickly. My friend took photos. I didn't even think to bring my camera but I probably wouldn't have taken shots anyway.

The rumour mill was working into overdrive at the State Library. From overheard conversations, we discovered that all public transport was to be shut down. There was a general feeling of panic at the extremely busy bus terminal. The buses were  full to overflowing.

Now that we are safely home, we have found out that public transport will not be shut down, so there was no need to panic. At any rate, I am glad we are out of the river precinct. We are fortunately not at risk where we live.

I called Jason as he works in the City. He's on his way home, they're shutting the office for the afternoon. We're hoping he gets home before it gets worse but it is bumper to bumper traffic to get out of the CBD.

The rain is still falling steadily. Will it ever cease?

My thoughts are with family and friends who are living in the "at risk" areas of Brisbane and Ipswich. Stay safe and take care.

Update 3.30pm:
Jason's just walked through the door. All is good.

He dropped a friend off at Cannon Hill Station so he could pick up his car. His friend had been waiting an hour for his train to get out of the CBD - one had been cancelled. Luckily he called Jason to get a lift home.

The entire trip took 1 1/2 hours. The worst of the trip was getting out of Adelaide Street onto the Story Bridge.

I'm feeling a bit nervous because my parents live in East Brisbane nearby Norman Creek. They don't have the telephone on either (some mad idea about being harassed by telemarketers...don't you just hate old people!). They have been in the same house since the 60s. The 1974 floods fortunately never reached their house although the lower end of the street went under. I'm hoping they will be okay too.

I hate unpredictable times like these.