The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a warning about “dangerous to life-threatening flooding” for Queensland. The affected area stretches over 750 kilometres, from Cairns to Mackay, with significant rainfall expected to intensify over the weekend. As severe weather conditions worsen, authorities are on high alert, and residents across multiple towns are being urged to prepare for potential evacuations.
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Severe Weather Hits North Queensland
Heavy rainfall is predicted to cause severe flooding, particularly between Innisfail and Townsville. BOM forecaster Matthew Colopy highlighted that rainfall totals of up to 1,000 millimetres over two to three days are possible. Daily rainfall totals ranging from 200mm to 350mm, with some isolated areas experiencing up to 600mm, are expected from Saturday to Monday.
“This is a significant weather event,” said Colopy. The flooding risk is exacerbated by the intense, localised rain, which is expected to continue throughout the weekend. As the rain falls steadily, residents in low-lying areas face the possibility of major flooding.
Authorities Issue Evacuation Warnings
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has urged residents in flood-prone suburbs to take immediate action. He emphasised the need for people to prepare to leave their homes if directed, noting, “The most important thing is that we get through this without a loss of life.”
In Townsville, emergency services have been actively doorknocking up to 4,000 homes. Local authorities have warned residents in Cluden, Hermit Park, Idalia, Oonoonba, Railway Estate, and Rosslea to prepare to leave. The risk of floodwaters overtaking homes is high, with areas already reporting significant rainfall.
Emergency Response Mobilised
The storm has prompted hundreds of emergency calls, with emergency crews working tirelessly to respond. Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy described the situation as “really dangerous,” and noted the urgency of the response. The Queensland Police and other emergency services are doorknocking affected areas to provide assistance and evacuation guidance.
Authorities are also coordinating with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to enhance doorknocking efforts, particularly in the most impacted regions. Emergency services have been called to assist with evacuations and flood rescues, especially in areas like South Johnstone.
Continuous Rainfall Threatens to Worsen Flooding
As of Saturday afternoon, rainfall is expected to intensify, with areas like Halifax already seeing up to 60mm of rain in just one hour. BOM forecaster Dean Narramore described the unfolding situation as a “major flood scenario.”
“Instead of getting that big blast of wind and rain, we’re looking at two or three days of just continuous moderate to heavy rainfall,” he said, warning that the prolonged rainfall could lead to widespread major flooding.
Emergency services have been on the ground for days, dealing with flooded roads and swift water rescues. Ingham, a town near Townsville, is particularly at risk due to rising water levels, with some roads already cut off by flooding.
Flood Warnings and Precautions
Major flood warnings are in place for several waterways, including the Bohle, Ross, Herbert, and Haughton Rivers. Authorities have issued marine wind warnings for coastal regions, including Townsville, Mackay, and the Capricornia coast. In some areas, roads have been closed due to rising water, including the Bruce Highway north of Townsville.
Hinchinbrook Mayor Ramon Jayor warned that communities in the area are facing extreme rainfall, potentially leading to riverine flooding. Similarly, the Whitsundays region has seen multiple swift water rescues. The local councils have urged residents to stay vigilant and monitor the situation.
Advice for Residents
Residents are urged to prepare emergency kits and evacuate to higher ground if instructed to do so. Local authorities in affected towns, including Townsville and Innisfail, are advising people to pack essential items, such as medications, clothing, and important documents. Emergency centres are ready to assist, and further evacuations may occur as conditions worsen.
“We are asking people to make sure they are prepared,” said Innisfail’s District Disaster Coordinator, Inspector Nathan Blain.
Conclusion
With the potential for catastrophic flooding, authorities are urging residents to remain alert, particularly in flood-prone areas. The coming days will be critical as emergency teams continue to respond and monitor water levels across Queensland. Residents are advised to heed evacuation orders and stay updated on official warnings.