community - 2026-05-30

WIRES urges residents to avoid floodwaters and watch for waterlogged wildlife as heavy rain continues

Source: www.wires.org.au

As storms and heavy rain continue to lash parts of Australia, wildlife rescue group WIRES says it is receiving calls about animals impacted by widespread inundation and fast-flowing floodwaters, and is urging residents to put safety first. WIRES is asking people to follow directions from relevant state authorities, avoid entering floodwaters, and call triple zero (000) if caught in a flood.

As storms and heavy rain continue to lash parts of Australia, wildlife rescue group WIRES says it is receiving calls about animals impacted by widespread inundation and fast-flowing floodwaters, and is urging residents to put safety first. WIRES is asking people to follow directions from relevant state authorities, avoid entering floodwaters, and call triple zero (000) if caught in a flood. WIRES says extreme weather can cause stress and shock for wildlife, and its rescue line can become extremely busy during severe conditions. The organisation says there are still practical steps the public can take to help, beginning with keeping watch for “waterlogged” animals — those that are completely saturated and often unable to move — which may be seeking shelter in unusual places. Birds are often among the most affected, WIRES says, as waterlogging can leave them unable to fly. Seabirds can also be blown or swept off course, sometimes turning up exhausted on beaches or even many kilometres inland. WIRES says if a bird is found in this state and it is safe to do so, it can be picked up by gently wrapping it in a small towel or soft cloth with no loose threads. WIRES advises taking the...