The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for large swathes of northern Queensland, with communities bracing for intense rainfall and dangerous flash flooding.
Widespread Heavy Rainfall Expected
The warning, issued on Sunday morning, covers a vast area including Mount Isa, Cloncurry, Burketown, Mornington Island, Normanton, Cairns, Innisfail, Tully, Doomadgee, Richmond, Julia Creek, Camooweal, Ingham and Croydon. The dangerous conditions are being driven by a monsoon trough interacting with a low-pressure system, creating the perfect recipe for a significant deluge.
The Bureau stated these systems are likely to generate widespread heavy rainfall across parts of northern Queensland, with the intensity expected to strengthen into Sunday night.
Northwest Queensland on High Alert
In the Gulf Country, Northern Goldfields and Upper Flinders, North West and Central West Forecast Districts, heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding throughout Sunday and into Monday. The BOM forecasts six-hourly rainfall totals between 75mm to 120mm are likely, with isolated falls up to 170mm possible.
Areas of heavy rainfall about northwest Queensland are forecast to persist into early next week, with the precise locations and totals dependent on the position and strength of the low. The Bureau also warned that these conditions present a significant risk to cattle and other livestock in the region.
Northeast Tropical Coast in the Firing Line
The same severe weather system is set to bring heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding to areas between Cairns and north of Townsville from late Sunday, persisting into Monday. The rainfall is predicted to be even more intense on the tropical coast.
Six-hourly rainfall totals between 120mm to 200mm are likely here, with isolated falls up to 260mm possible. Multiple flood watches and warnings are already in effect across the northern part of the state.
Critical Advice for Residents
Authorities are urging residents in the impacted areas to take immediate precautions to ensure their safety. Key advice includes:
- Avoid driving in dangerous conditions unless absolutely necessary.
- Secure pets in a safe location and ensure they are identifiable.
- Check on the welfare of friends, family, and neighbours.
- Keep essential medications, including asthma inhalers, close at hand.
- Park vehicles undercover and away from trees.
- Fully charge mobile phones and power banks in case of power outages.
The Bureau of Meteorology will provide its next update at 5pm AEST on Sunday as the severe weather situation develops.
