North Queensland is currently battling some of the worst rainfall and flooding in years, with emergency crews responding to over 300 calls for assistance. Some areas, particularly in and around Townsville, have been hit by significant flash flooding. As a result, residents in several locations have been urged to evacuate to avoid further danger.
Flash Flooding and Evacuations in Townsville and Surrounding Areas
The situation in Townsville is dire. The local disaster management group (LDMG) is preparing for evacuations in areas such as Cluden, Hermit Park, Idalia, Oonoonba, Railway Estate, and Rosslea. Residents in these areas are advised to “prepare to leave.” Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy of the State Disaster Coordinator team said:
“This is a really dangerous situation at the moment, and South Johnstone residents, they’re being told to leave now, and the police and emergency services are out door knocking that now.”
Chelepy mentioned that the police would knock on up to 4,000 doors across Townsville to inform residents about the worsening weather.
With the rising floodwaters, local authorities are taking additional precautions to keep residents safe. Townsville’s LDMG chairperson, Andrew Robinson, also voiced concerns about the region’s dam levels and their potential impact on the already flooding Ross River. “We need to keep a watch on the levels there, and obviously the releases that it’s providing into the Ross River,” he stated.
Heavy Rainfall Expected to Continue
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that the region is expected to receive up to 500mm of rain over the weekend, which could worsen the flooding situation. Helen Reid, a BOM forecaster, stated that Townsville should expect an additional 250mm on Saturday, with isolated areas possibly seeing up to 500mm. “We are looking at that being rather problematic, with several rivers already expecting major flooding this morning,” she noted.
Rainfall totals have already been alarming, with North Ward receiving 350mm by 5:15 am, and Stoney Creek seeing over 290mm. Shane Chelepy further warned: “My message today is I really need everyone in around that Townsville, Innisfail area to stay in contact with alerts.”
Widespread Flooding and Risk of River Overflows
As a result of the continuous rainfall, major river systems in the area are on the brink of overflow. Flood warnings have been issued for the Bohle River, Ross River, Herbert River, and Haughton River, all of which are expected to reach major flood levels. Local authorities are particularly concerned about areas like Mount Low and Eungella, where significant rainfall has already been recorded.
Additionally, in the Whitsunday region, Mayor Ry Collins reported multiple swift water rescues, urging residents to stay off the roads. “It’s not a weekend to be on the roads,” he emphasized, noting that rainfall in the region has been particularly intense, with some areas receiving up to 200mm in a single day.
Communities in Crisis: How to Stay Safe
With floodwaters rising and a severe thunderstorm warning still in effect for parts of the central coast and Whitsunday region, emergency crews are working around the clock to assist communities. Local authorities have already set up evacuation centers, including one at Heatley Secondary School in Townsville.
The Bruce Highway, a major thoroughfare, has been closed north of Townsville at Seymour River due to rising floodwaters. The Department of Transport and Main Roads has warned that the highway is not expected to reopen anytime soon.
Local authorities are asking people to stay updated on conditions through emergency alerts and to help neighbors—particularly newcomers who may be unaware of the risks in the area. Inspector Nathan Blain, District Disaster Coordinator for Innisfail, echoed these concerns, urging residents to be prepared and to take action if required.
A Dire Situation and Growing Risks
Emergency services continue to monitor the evolving situation, with multiple flood watches still in effect. Shane Chelepy urged residents to follow all evacuation orders, stating:
“Don’t put yourself at risk and stay… if the police come and knock on your door and advise you that you should leave, please make that decision to leave and help us out.”
Authorities are closely monitoring rising river levels, while flood risks remain heightened across the region. With major rainfall totals expected to persist, the situation remains fluid, and local authorities are readying additional resources to assist impacted communities.
This weekend could bring even more rain, further exacerbating the situation. BOM’s Helen Reid remarked that high tide on Saturday would likely contribute to additional flooding, particularly near coastal areas. “We do have notifications that there will be evacuations required during the course of today,” she said.
