Wivenhoe Dam opened moments ago after the Queensland Government announced 116,000 megalitres of water would be released.
The plan is to reduce the water level from 90% to 80% to avoid a flooding crisis this summer.
Wivenhoe Dam in Queensland is starting to release water. (9 News)
“Small rivers downstream of Wivenhoe are expected during these releases, with river flows being kept within the river banks,” SEQWater said in a statement.
“Wivenhoe acts as a dual purpose dam, providing both potable water storage and temporary storage to help mitigate flood waters during severe weather.”
Residents downstream of the dam are cautioned to stay away from fast-flowing or deep water near waterways and floodplains.
In February, during the devastating floods, the dam was filled from 80% to 180%, which is its capacity.
Residents in the southeast have been told to stay away from Gerni and use the water to clean their homes, cars and gardens after years of water restrictions.
The government will also cut $55 off household water bills, full details of which can be read here.
Crabs wash up in Melbourne suburbs as flooding crisis continues