Record rainfall in Australia’s northeast has caused deadly floodwaters to rise for a third consecutive day, prompting authorities to warn communities of further destruction. One person drowned on Sunday, and thousands of residents in low-lying coastal areas are under evacuation orders after nearly a summer’s worth of rain fell in just a few days.
The impacted areas stretch along the Queensland coast from Cairns to Mackay, with Townsville, Ingham, and Cardwell among the worst-hit by flash floods and overflowing rivers. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli described the devastation in Ingham as significant, affecting homes, businesses, and agriculture.
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology issued severe weather warnings for large coastal areas, with heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms expected. Some regions have experienced up to a meter of rainfall in a week, leading to major flood warnings along six rivers.
Tragically, a woman in her 60s died in Ingham after a rescue boat capsized. State Disaster Coordinator Shane Chelepy reported no further fatalities as of Monday. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed condolences and pledged government support.
Residents are also cautioned about crocodiles in floodwaters, as the reptiles may move into new areas during flooding. Emergency services received 480 calls for assistance overnight, with multiple rescues conducted. In Townsville, six suburbs were evacuated, and over 400 people sought refuge in evacuation centers.
The flooding follows days of heavy rain and damaging winds from tropical systems. Climate experts attribute the intensifying rain events to global warming. While rainfall is expected to ease, more life-threatening rain and floods are anticipated.
Record-breaking rainfall has been recorded in various locations, with some areas receiving over six months’ worth of rain in a few days. Rivers have swelled beyond flood levels, prompting controlled water releases from dams. Relief efforts are ongoing, with authorities urging residents to remain vigilant.
