For over a week, Northern Queensland has been struggling with relentless rain, leading to power outages, mass evacuations, and the tragic loss of two lives. Unfortunately, the situation is expected to worsen.
Severe weather conditions have forced the closure of an airport in a flood-prone region, with authorities warning of more heavy rainfall and a possible cyclone on the horizon.
On Friday, meteorologists issued a severe weather alert, predicting torrential downpours from Tully to Ayr. With up to 250mm of rain expected daily, officials have cautioned residents about the risk of “dangerous and life-threatening flooding.”
Emergency Response in Full Swing
In preparation for the worsening weather, authorities have deployed additional police forces, boats, and water rescue teams to Mackay and Whitsunday. A new operations center has also been set up in Mackay to coordinate disaster response efforts across a 400km stretch reaching Townsville.
Whitsunday Coast Airport Shuts Down
The Whitsunday Coast Airport was closed on Friday due to heavy rain and flooding, forcing passengers to evacuate.
A statement released on social media read:
“Due to a high risk of road closures and continued heavy rainfall, all flights scheduled for today have been canceled.”
Delivering Aid by Air
With many roads submerged or impassable, helicopters have been deployed to deliver food and essential supplies to isolated communities north of Townsville.
Floodwaters had started to recede, allowing supermarkets to restock and crews to clear major highways. However, the forecast for additional rainfall is raising concerns once again.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli acknowledged that residents are facing yet another challenge.
“These communities have already been through so much. They’ve endured a tough week, and unfortunately, things aren’t going to get easier anytime soon,” he said during a visit to Townsville on Friday.
Heavy Rain Continues
After a brief break, heavy rain returned overnight, triggering flash floods in Townsville.
The city recorded 142mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours, while the Burdekin region received a staggering 221mm. Forecasts predict more rain for Townsville and Mackay throughout the weekend.
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that between 200mm and 300mm of rain could fall between Tully and Ayr, further worsening flood risks.
Communities Struggle to Recover
Despite the grim forecast, locals like Judy Hinspeeter are doing their best to clean up and rebuild their lives.
“We have some tough days ahead,” said Townsville’s acting mayor, Ann-Maree Greaney.
In addition to flooding, residents are also facing another unexpected danger—displaced wildlife.
The local council has advised people returning to flood-affected homes to be extra cautious, as there has been a rise in snakebite incidents due to reptiles being forced out of their natural habitats by the heavy rain.
Tropical Low Developing Offshore
Adding to the concerns, meteorologists predict a tropical low will form over the Coral Sea off the Queensland coast by Saturday. While it is not expected to intensify into a cyclone, experts say the system could still bring more rain as it moves toward the mainland.
Critical Infrastructure Being Restored
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has stepped in to build a temporary river crossing, ensuring emergency crews can continue delivering vital supplies.
Flood warnings remain in effect across vast stretches of Queensland, from Cairns in the north to St. Lawrence in the central region.
Ingham has been one of the hardest-hit towns, with prolonged flooding cutting off power for nearly a week, disrupting food supplies, and claiming the lives of two women.
Thankfully, electricity has now been restored, and the military has constructed a temporary bridge over the collapsed Olera Creek crossing. For now, the crossing is only open to emergency services delivering supplies, but officials hope to allow workers access soon.
Uncertain Days Ahead
With more heavy rain on the way, emergency responders and local communities are bracing for another difficult stretch. Authorities are urging residents to stay alert, take precautions, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
