The North Queensland community of Ayr is battening down the hatches as ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji tracks dangerously close, sparking serious fears of sudden and severe flash flooding across the region.
A Community on High Alert
Residents in the Burdekin Shire town are being urged to prepare immediately as the weather system, formerly known as Tropical Cyclone Koji, moves south-southwest. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall which is likely to lead to dangerous flash flooding. The warning specifically covers areas from Ingham to Sarina, including Ayr, Home Hill, and Bowen.
Local disaster management groups have been activated, with the focus squarely on community safety. The system is expected to bring intense rain bands, with the potential for six-hourly rainfall totals between 150 and 250 millimetres. Isolated falls could reach a staggering 350 millimetres.
Immediate Threats and Official Advice
The primary concern for emergency services is not wind damage, but the rapid onset of floodwaters. Flash flooding is considered a significant and life-threatening risk, particularly in low-lying areas and near creeks and rivers. Roads are expected to become hazardous or be cut off entirely, isolating some communities.
Authorities are advising people in the warning area to take several key precautions immediately:
- Secure loose outdoor items and move vehicles under cover.
- Avoid driving, walking, or riding through flood waters.
- Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies, medicines, and important documents.
- Stay informed by monitoring official Bureau of Meteorology updates and local emergency service advice.
Residents have been told not to become complacent just because the system has been downgraded from a tropical cyclone. The heavy rainfall and flooding threat remains extremely high and is the defining characteristic of this weather event.
Regional Impact and the Path Ahead
The impacts are being felt across a wide swathe of North Queensland. The system has already delivered substantial rain to coastal areas north of Ayr as it travelled down the coast. All eyes are now on its projected path as it continues to move inland, with the heavy rain band shifting southwards.
This event serves as a stark reminder for North Queensland communities to have their cyclone and flood plans ready, especially during the active season. The swift change from a cyclone to a severe rain event highlights the unpredictable nature of these systems and the need for constant vigilance.
As Ayr and its neighbouring towns wait and watch, the message from officials is clear: prioritise safety, stay off the roads if flooding occurs, and keep up to date with the latest warnings. The coming hours will be critical as the ex-cyclone unleashes its payload of rain over the Burdekin region.
