Unprecedented Rainfall and Evacuation Orders in Northern Queensland
After more than 24 hours of relentless rain in Townsville and areas further north, evacuation orders have been issued for numerous residents. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) is warning that conditions are expected to worsen from Cairns down to Mackay as a slow-moving tropical low hovers over the region.
Authorities Brace for Severe Flooding
With almost 400 millimeters of rain falling in just 24 hours in some parts of the state, roads are swamped, and properties are at risk. Townsville Local Disaster Management Group has issued an emergency alert for several areas, including Cluden, Hermit Park, Idalia, Oonoonba, Railway Estate, and Rosslea, as dangerous flooding is anticipated within the next 24 hours.
- Flooding to second-story floors is possible, with single-story buildings at risk of complete flooding.
- Emergency services may find it too hazardous to conduct rescues.
Severe Weather Warning and Forecast
A severe weather warning remains in place, with the BoM forecasting conditions that could result in dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding between Ingham and Giru, including Townsville. Rainfall totals of 120 to 200mm every six hours are likely, with isolated falls of up to 240mm possible. Additionally, 24-hour rainfall totals of up to 350mm are expected.
A low-pressure system within the monsoon trough, currently situated off the coast near Tully, poses a threat to residents from Cairns to Mackay.
Evacuation Efforts and Flood Precautions
Police officers have been going door to door in South Johnstone near Innisfail, encouraging locals to plan their evacuation if floodwaters continue to rise. Residents are urged to prepare to leave and find a safe, high place away from flooding.
Major flood warnings have been issued for various rivers in Queensland, including the Herbert River, the Ross and Bohle Rivers, the Black River, Bluewater Creek, and the Haughton River Catchment.
- In parts of the Cassowary Coast, warnings have been issued for South Johnstone residents to evacuate immediately and for Mourilyan residents to prepare for evacuation.
Emergency Response and Safety Measures
Evacuation centers have been opened across the state, with some Townsville residents already relocating to a center by early evening. Authorities have closed all beaches in Townsville due to the dangerous conditions caused by flooding.
Residents are strongly advised to avoid contact with floodwater, as it may contain bacteria that pose serious health risks. Dr. Steven Donohue, Townsville Public Health Unit Director, emphasized the importance of staying out of floodwaters, especially for children.
Memories of Past Flooding and Concerns
For some locals, the current weather conditions are reminiscent of severe flooding experienced in the region in 2019. Reports of crocodiles being swept up in floodwaters and ending up in residential areas have heightened concerns among residents.
Maritime authorities are working to secure a yacht that broke its mooring at the Strand marina, washing up on a nearby shore amidst the wild and windy conditions.
Leadership and Urgent Appeals for Preparation
Queensland Premier David Crisfaulli has urged affected residents to heed the advice provided by emergency services and prepare for possible evacuation. He stressed the importance of prioritizing human safety over property or infrastructure.
The Premier is collaborating with the federal government to ensure necessary support is delivered to affected areas.
Weather Forecast and Future Outlook
The Bureau of Meteorology has labeled this weather event as significant, with expectations of two to three-day rainfall totals exceeding 1000mm. North Queensland, particularly between Cairns and Mackay, has endured damaging wet weather for the past week, with some areas receiving up to 1000mm of rainfall.
There are three troughs currently within the monsoon trough, with the potential for one in the Coral Sea to develop into a tropical cyclone. The weather conditions are projected to persist into mid-next week, contingent upon the strength and position of the weather system.