Intense rain in Australia's northeast has led to dangerous flash floods, resulting in one fatality and thousands under evacuation orders. The North Queensland coast, particularly Ingham and Townsville, has been heavily impacted since Friday. Residents in low-lying areas have been urged to evacuate immediately.
Queensland Premier confirmed the death of a woman in Ingham due to flooding. The woman drowned after a rescue boat capsized, with five others rescued. Prime Minister expressed condolences and pledged government support.
Emergency alerts have been issued in Townsville, warning of life-threatening flooding. Residents in high-risk areas were urged to evacuate, with evacuation centers opened. Authorities also cautioned about the presence of crocodiles in floodwaters.
Townsville, previously hit by devastating floods in 2019, is facing similar conditions this weekend. Torrential rain and damaging winds from tropical systems have caused 24-hour rainfall totals of up to 600 mm in some areas.
Forecasters predict continued heavy rain and winds, potentially leading to further flash flooding. Ingham is bracing for its worst flooding in 60 years, with river levels expected to match those of 1967.
