The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a stark warning for Far North Queensland, as a developing tropical low over the Gulf of Carpentaria threatens to bring further flooding to an already sodden region. The system, designated 18U, currently lingers over the western Gulf waters and presents a moderate chance of intensifying into a tropical cyclone within the coming week.
Cyclone Risk and Rainfall Forecast
BOM meteorologists indicate that if the low remains over the warm waters of the Gulf, it could strengthen into a tropical cyclone over the weekend or early next week. The system's movement remains uncertain, with potential to drift over land and track westwards. Regardless of its development, the stubborn low is expected to bring increased rainfall to the far north, Gulf country, and parts of the Northern Territory.
Moderate to heavy rainfall may persist across the Gulf country and western peninsula for several days, though the exact location of the heaviest falls will depend on the tropical low's precise track. Residents in affected areas are urged to closely monitor forecasts and warnings for updates as conditions evolve.
Saturated Catchments and Existing Flooding
Northern Queensland catchments remain dangerously saturated following recent heavy rainfall, with numerous areas already experiencing flooding. The Bureau notes that further precipitation could trigger rapid river level rises and renewed flooding across the Flood Watch area in coming days.
Current flood warnings extend across multiple river systems including the Murray, Herbert, Nicholson, Upper and Lower Flinders, Norman and Gilbert, Thomson, Barcoo and Cooper Creek, Diamantina, Georgina, and Eyre Creek catchments. Some regions are experiencing their highest flood levels since approximately 1974.
Emergency Rescues and Community Isolation
The severity of the situation was highlighted earlier this week when emergency services rescued two north Queensland farmers from the roof of their home west of Georgetown. The Gilbert River had broken its banks, leaving the couple stranded without power or mobile service.
Torrents of water continue to move downstream toward Gulf communities, many of which are already isolated by existing flooding. BOM's Harry Clark warned that these communities could potentially remain cut off for weeks as floodwaters persist.
Extended Impact and Preparedness
With the tropical low expected to linger over the Northern Territory or Gulf of Carpentaria for several days, authorities emphasize the importance of community preparedness. The combination of saturated ground and additional rainfall creates particularly hazardous conditions across northern Australia.
Emergency services remain on high alert as they monitor the developing situation, ready to respond to further incidents as the weather system evolves over the coming week.
