In the wake of relentless rainfall, northern Queensland is currently grappling with severe flooding that has claimed the life of a woman and forced thousands to evacuate their homes. Torrential downpours have resulted in floodwaters reaching alarming levels, with warnings issued that they could rise as high as second-storey windows in certain areas. Officials describe the situation as alarming, highlighting the potential for life-threatening conditions.
In just 24 hours, some regions have recorded over 700mm (26 inches) of rainfall, prompting Queensland State Premier David Crisafulli to express concerns about ongoing “record rainfalls” that are anticipated to continue into the week. According to meteorologists, the region may witness its worst flooding in over six decades.
Crisafulli noted that the severity of the flooding is not just in its strength but also in its duration. He described the conditions facing northern Queensland as unprecedented, emphasizing the community's need for vigilance against this dangerous weather.
As flood warnings intensified, residents in Townsville were ordered to evacuate by Sunday midday, with the government dispatching 100,000 sandbags to mitigate flood damage in the affected areas. However, efforts to deliver emergency supplies and assistance have been hampered by road closures between Townsville and the popular tourist destination of Cairns, complicating rescue operations. The ongoing situation remains a grave concern as authorities continue monitoring the rapidly changing weather patterns.
