Residents in far north Queensland are being advised to seek higher ground as a tropical low system heads for the coast, bringing with it severe weather, heavy rain, and the potential for life-threatening flash flooding. The region is bracing for the worst as the tropical low is expected to cross the coast between Cairns and Townsville on Friday afternoon, before moving south-west into central Queensland at the weekend.
- +Tropical Low Brings Heavy Rain, Flash Flooding to Far North Queensland
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, up to 240mm of rain is expected to fall in a six-hour period on Friday, which could lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, up to 240mm of rain is expected to fall in a six-hour period on Friday, which could lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding. The Daintree River has already seen flash flooding, prompting a flood emergency warning from police at 9.30pm on Thursday. Residents in the area have been told to move to safety, with sandbag stations in place in other areas to help mitigate the effects of the heavy rain.
The Daintree ferry has come loose from its moorings in the wild conditions, and council and emergency crews are planning to attempt to retrieve the vessel once conditions allow. Mayor of Douglas shire, Lisa Scomazzon, has appealed for residents' patience and understanding as the region deals with the major flooding event. "We ask for everyone's patience and understanding as we continue to deal with a major flooding event that is affecting the entire region," she said.
The tropical low system has been described as "disconnected" by the Bureau of Meteorology's Angus Hines, with a very low chance of intensifying before hitting the coast. However, the region is still expected to experience severe weather, with heavy rain, flooding, and damaging winds forecast for Friday. Other parts of the state, including the coast from Townsville down to Mackay, are also being flagged as areas to watch, with heavy falls expected to continue over north Queensland and potentially stretch down through the central coast, Capricornia, and into the Wide Bay region.
Residents in the affected areas have been advised to have their emergency plans in place, stock up on supplies, and be ready to leave before their homes flood. "You never know until it actually happens, but we're prepared," said Cassowary Coast mayor, Teresa Millwood. "Basically, we just sit back and wait now."
Hinchinbrook shire's mayor, Ramon Jayo, has warned his community to expect heavy rain and high winds. "We've got a load coming at us... but we're ready," he said. "We just got rid of a major flood last Monday and we're lining up again for some more flooding."
As the tropical low system moves south-west into central Queensland at the weekend, residents in other parts of the state are being warned to keep track of forecasts, especially for rain on Sunday. The impacts of the system could also be felt in south-east Queensland, with heavy falls expected to continue over the region.
The situation is being closely monitored by emergency services, with crews ready to deploy in Innisfail and Cardwell, and sandbag stations ready if needed. Residents are being advised to stay informed and follow the latest updates from the Bureau of Meteorology and local authorities.
As the tropical low system brings heavy rain and flash flooding to far north Queensland, residents are being urged to take necessary precautions and stay safe. The situation will continue to be closely monitored, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
