The weakening weather system that caused widespread flooding in north Queensland continues to generate unpredictable and intense storms, increasing the risk of flash flooding in already affected areas. As recovery efforts begin, authorities warn that significant rainfall is still expected in several regions, including Townsville and Ingham.
Continuing Heavy Rainfall And Flood Risks
According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), over 200 millimetres of rain could fall in parts of Townsville, Ingham, and surrounding areas in the coming days. Hamilton Island recorded the highest rainfall in the state, with 312mm accumulating in just 24 hours.
The extreme weather has already led to multiple rescue operations, including an incident in the Whitsundays, where two men became stranded by rapidly rising waters while traveling to Cedar Creek Falls.
Meteorologist Rohan Smyth cautioned that any thunderstorms forming in the region could lead to sudden and severe flooding.
Fatalities Reported
Emergency services have been actively responding to rising floodwaters, with Georgetown—a town 350km inland—ordering evacuations after the Etheridge River overflowed. Officials door-knocked homes overnight, evacuating 10 residents.
A second flood-related fatality was confirmed in Ingham, where the body of an 82-year-old woman was found in cane fields after being reported missing. This follows the death of another woman when an emergency services boat capsized in floodwaters on Sunday.
Local authorities described the situation as devastating, with Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood confirming that around 70 homes have been inundated.
Record-breaking Rainfall
Since the weekend, Cardwell has received 1,700mm of rain, with more expected. The BOM’s Jonathan How said records are being reviewed as additional rainfall is forecast for the coming days.
In Townsville, residents who evacuated over the weekend are slowly returning, though concerns remain about flood damage.
Supply Shortages And Infrastructure Challenges
Flooding has left communities isolated, creating supply shortages and infrastructure failures. In Ingham, residents woke up without running water due to a malfunction at the local water treatment plant.
Mayor Ramon Jayo explained that while a generator was brought in from Townsville, an issue with the pumping system’s telemetry has prevented water from flowing.
In Cairns, flash flooding swept through shopping centre car parks and residential streets. Local disaster coordinator Rhys Newton urged residents to prepare for sudden flood events, particularly in areas near drains and low-lying roads.
Emergency Response And Recovery Efforts
Swift water rescue teams and Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel have arrived in Townsville to assist with rescue operations and recovery efforts.
Assistant Commissioner Michael O’Neal stated that while the immediate priority remains evacuations and rescues, authorities are preparing to transition into damage assessments and recovery work once floodwaters recede.
“We’re still in the response phase, but once conditions allow, teams will begin damage assessments and assist with clean-up efforts,” he said.
With more heavy rainfall expected, authorities continue to urge residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant. Officials advise securing properties, preparing sandbags, and avoiding unnecessary travel through flooded roads.
