Key Takeaways:
- Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji is bringing heavy rain and flash flooding to north and central Queensland
- Several people have been rescued from floodwaters, and severe weather warnings are in place
- The Bureau of Meteorology warns of life-threatening flash flooding, with six-hourly rain totals of over 250mm possible
- Major flood warnings remain in place for several rivers, and a flood watch is in place for rivers between Ayr and the Wide Bay
- Residents are warned of the risks of landslides, trees falling, and damaging winds
Introduction to the Storm
The north and central Queensland communities are once again facing the brunt of heavy rain and flash flooding as ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji moves inland. The category one cyclone crossed the north Queensland coast between Ayr and Bowen on Sunday morning, bringing with it severe weather warnings for "locally intense rainfall" from Mackay to Gladstone and inland areas. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that six-hourly rain totals of more than 250 millimeters may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding. The ex-cyclone has weakened to a tropical low-pressure system, but the risks of flooding and damage remain high.
Flood Rescues and Emergency Response
Several people were rescued from floodwaters on Sunday night, with a swift-water rescue crew saving a woman, two children, and two dogs in Gracemere, near Rockhampton. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli expressed his gratitude to the rescue crews, saying that "it’s times like these you see people helping each other. It really gives you a great sense of fulfillment about the good in people." In Mackay, a man was rescued after being swept down the flooded Pioneer River while trying to reach his yacht. The man was not wearing a life jacket and was lucky to have an anchor on board, which probably saved his life.
Rainfall and Flooding
The heavy rainfall has soaked coastal and inland areas, with parts of the Mackay hinterland receiving more than 300mm of rain since Sunday morning. Major flood warnings remain in place for the Georgina River, the Connors-Isaac River, and the Flinders River. There is also a flood watch for rivers between Ayr and the Wide Bay and adjacent inland catchments. The Bureau of Meteorology’s forecaster, Miriam Bradbury, said that the latest rain is "exacerbating" the ongoing riverine flooding situation, which has already begun to develop. The saturated river catchments are increasing the risks of life-threatening flash flooding.
Weather Warnings and Risks
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned of an "ongoing risk" of damaging winds if thunderstorms develop, with winds gusts of up to 113 kilometers per hour recorded at Hamilton Island. Communities have also been warned of the risks of landslides and trees falling, particularly in steep and hilly terrain. The ex-cyclone’s strong winds and rough ocean conditions have already ripped several boats free of their anchorages, pushing them to shore. Residents are advised to be cautious and prepared for any further severe weather.
Community Impact
The ex-cyclone has had a significant impact on the community, with several boats damaged or destroyed. Airlie Beach local and keen yachtsman George Canfield said that Koji was "full on" and that it was tough to watch other locals’ boats being lashed by the severe weather. The community is coming together to support each other, with many residents expressing gratitude for the rescue efforts and emergency response. The Queensland Premier has urged residents to stay safe and follow the instructions of emergency services.
Forecast and Future Risks
According to the Bureau of Meteorology’s seven-day forecast map, Koji is expected to weaken further and move west and then north-west through the Gulf Country and towards the Northern Territory. There is a chance that it could redevelop into a tropical cyclone if it moves off the coast, potentially affecting northern Western Australia next weekend. Residents are advised to stay informed and up-to-date with the latest weather forecasts and warnings, and to be prepared for any further severe weather. The risks of flooding, landslides, and damaging winds will continue to be a concern for the next few days, and residents are urged to exercise caution and follow the instructions of emergency services.