Key Takeaways
- Flooding in north-western Queensland is expected to continue, with a tropical low forecast to form in the Coral Sea and potentially reach tropical cyclone strength.
- Heavy rainfall is predicted for Cooktown, Lockhart River, Cairns, Ingham, and Tully towards the end of next week.
- Residents in the far north of Queensland are bracing for potential heavy rain and flash flooding.
- A $38 million aid package has been announced for flood-affected communities across North West Queensland.
- The Queensland Department of Primary Industries has reported an estimated 24,200 head of livestock missing or dead, and 1,049 kilometers of fencing damaged.
Introduction to the Floods
The floodwaters in parts of north-western Queensland are beginning to recede, but residents in the far north of the state are preparing for potential heavy rain and flash flooding next week. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has predicted a "moderate chance" that a tropical low, which is forecast to form in the Coral Sea, could reach tropical cyclone strength. This has raised concerns among residents and authorities, who are already grappling with the aftermath of widespread flooding in the region.
Current Flood Situation
The current flood situation in North West Queensland is dire, with many communities cut off from supplies and support. Primary producers have reported an estimated 24,200 head of livestock missing or dead, and the Queensland Department of Primary Industries has confirmed that 1,049 kilometers of fencing have been damaged, and nearly 1,713 kilometers of private roads have been affected. The roads from Winton to Longreach and Hughenden have reopened to local traffic only, but the roads from Winton to Boulia and Richmond remain cut due to flooding.
Rescue Efforts and Warnings
Two people were rescued by helicopter near Urandangi on Tuesday after driving their vehicle into a flooded causeway at the Georgina River. Mount Isa Superintendent Tom Armitt warned that people should follow the Queensland traffic website for road closures, rather than mapping apps, to avoid getting into trouble. The State Emergency Service (SES) has been assisting with rescues and delivering supplies to stranded communities. A Flood Watch has been issued for the north-east coast, with minor to major flooding possible in any of the catchments stretching from Cape Melville south to Ayr.
Tropical Low and Forecast
The BOM has forecast that a tropical low will form in the Coral Sea "over the next day or two", with the system expected to move away from the coast before turning back towards the coast over the weekend. The system has a moderate chance of reaching tropical cyclone strength before it reaches the coast into the weekend. Heavy rainfall is forecast for Wednesday between Cooktown and Lockhart River, with the potential for exacerbated flash flooding and riverine flooding due to saturated catchments.
Impact on Businesses and Communities
The flooding has had a significant impact on businesses and communities in the region. Mount Isa cafe owner Renee Johnstone has had to keep her business closed for an extra week due to staff being stuck due to road and rail closures. Supermarkets have had empty shelves, with deliveries delayed due to road closures. A Woolworths spokesperson said supplies were coming from Adelaide and should arrive in Mount Isa on Wednesday or Thursday. Queensland Rail has also reopened the North Coast rail line following the completion of major track repairs after the line was impacted by flooding.
Government Response and Aid
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a $38 million aid package for flood-affected communities across North West Queensland. The government has expressed concern about the prospect of the tropical low forming off the north coast and has promised to provide any support needed. The aid package is expected to help communities recover from the floods and support primary producers who have been affected by the flooding.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The flooding in North West Queensland is expected to continue, with the tropical low forecast to form in the Coral Sea and potentially reach tropical cyclone strength. Residents in the far north of the state are bracing for potential heavy rain and flash flooding, and authorities are warning people to follow the Queensland traffic website for road closures and to be mindful of the flood risk. The government has announced a significant aid package to support flood-affected communities, and the SES is continuing to assist with rescues and deliver supplies to stranded communities. The situation is being closely monitored, and residents are advised to stay informed and follow the latest updates from authorities.