The ongoing recovery from Queensland's catastrophic floods reveals extensive damage and ongoing challenges for communities.
Queensland Floods Cause "Incredible" Devastation, Premier Warns
Queensland Floods Cause "Incredible" Devastation, Premier Warns
Northern Queensland's flood impact deemed unprecedented as evacuations commence and recovery begins.
In the aftermath of devastating floods, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has described the destruction across northern Queensland as "incredible", with thousands of evacuees anticipated to return home soon. Despite the improving weather conditions, concerns linger about the extent of the damage to homes and businesses following a deluge of close to 2 meters (6.5 feet) of rain since Saturday. Premier Crisafulli remarked to ABC, "It's a disaster that's going to test the resolve of people," emphasizing the severity of the situation.
In Townsville, residents experienced a welcomed change as drizzle replaced torrential rain, with the flood predictions failing to materialize as feared. Premier Crisafulli noted, "It appears that some six suburbs of Townsville may have dodged a bullet," despite alarming forecasts that previously estimated 1,700 homes could be at risk.
However, the situation is markedly different further north, where communication issues and damaged infrastructure hinder damage assessment in towns like Ingham and Cardwell. Crisafulli, a local of Ingham, expressed his shock at seeing water inundating businesses in areas traditionally safe from flooding.
With over 8,000 properties still without electricity, and key highways partially collapsed, restoring normalcy will be a prolonged effort. The Premier conveyed that the recovery process will take significant time, as the focus shifts towards understanding the full scale of the disaster and assisting affected communities.
In Townsville, residents experienced a welcomed change as drizzle replaced torrential rain, with the flood predictions failing to materialize as feared. Premier Crisafulli noted, "It appears that some six suburbs of Townsville may have dodged a bullet," despite alarming forecasts that previously estimated 1,700 homes could be at risk.
However, the situation is markedly different further north, where communication issues and damaged infrastructure hinder damage assessment in towns like Ingham and Cardwell. Crisafulli, a local of Ingham, expressed his shock at seeing water inundating businesses in areas traditionally safe from flooding.
With over 8,000 properties still without electricity, and key highways partially collapsed, restoring normalcy will be a prolonged effort. The Premier conveyed that the recovery process will take significant time, as the focus shifts towards understanding the full scale of the disaster and assisting affected communities.
