Key Takeaways
- Queenslanders are preparing for potential floods as ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji brings heavy rain to the region
- Thousands are without power as authorities work to restore electricity
- Flood warnings are in place for several catchments, with some areas forecast to see isolated totals of up to 340mm of rain in 24 hours
- The state is still reeling from the aftermath of the monsoon that devastated the north-west, with over 45,000 livestock missing or dead
- The economic impact of the disaster is expected to be significant, particularly for western Queensland’s agriculture industry
Introduction to the Situation
Queenslanders are bracing for potential floods as the state continues to feel the effects of ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji. The cyclone made landfall on Monday, bringing with it heavy rain and strong winds that have left thousands without power. Although the cyclone has been downgraded to a tropical low, the threat of major flooding remains, with flood warnings in place for several catchments along the central Queensland coast. The state’s premier, David Crisafulli, has urged residents to be prepared and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
The Aftermath of the Cyclone
The cyclone made landfall on Monday, with Hamilton Island recording winds of 113km/h. However, concerns about wild winds have abated, and the focus has shifted to the potential for major flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast isolated totals of up to 340mm of rain in 24 hours across saturated catchments, which has led to flood warnings being issued for several areas. The premier has warned that the next 24 to 48 hours will be critical, with the potential for significant rainfall in patches. He has urged residents to do the right thing and have necessary preparations in place to ensure their safety.
The State’s Response
The state government is taking a proactive approach to responding to the disaster, with the premier chairing a state disaster meeting from Proserpine on Monday. The meeting will bring together key stakeholders to discuss the response efforts and ensure that everything is being done to support affected communities. The government has also announced that it will continue to provide support to primary producers, including fodder drops and stockpiling antibiotics and veterinary supplies to treat surviving stock and combat infection. The premier has acknowledged that the economic impact of the disaster will be significant, particularly for western Queensland’s agriculture industry, and has pledged to do everything possible to spare as many cattle as possible and help those affected.
The Ongoing Crisis in Western Queensland
The monsoon that devastated the state’s north-west has left a trail of destruction, with over 45,000 livestock missing or dead. The area is still reeling from the aftermath, with many towns and properties isolated. The government has warned that the economic impact of the disaster will be large, and has pledged to do everything possible to support affected communities. The premier has acknowledged that the situation is dire, but has expressed confidence that Queenslanders can handle whatever comes their way. The focus now is on providing support to those affected and working to restore critical infrastructure, including power and communication networks.
The Road to Recovery
The road to recovery will be long and challenging, but the state government is committed to supporting affected communities every step of the way. The premier has urged residents to remain vigilant and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The government will continue to provide updates and information as the situation develops, and will work closely with key stakeholders to ensure that everything is being done to support those affected. As the state begins the process of recovery, it is clear that the impact of the disaster will be felt for a long time to come. However, with the support of the government and the resilience of Queenslanders, it is hoped that the state will be able to rebuild and recover in the months and years ahead.