As per reports, heavy rainfall in Queensland through Friday (31 January) has resulted in flood-like situations in many areas, especially in northeast Queensland, prompting authorities to issue evacuation notices.
• Northeast Queensland residents are warned to prepare to evacuate as life-threatening floods and more than 600mm of rain are forecast.
• A low-pressure system embedded within the monsoon trough is currently located off the coast near Tully and will develop through Saturday (01 February).
• Townsville Local Disaster Management Group has issued an emergency alert for Cluden, Hermit Park, Idalia, Oonoonba, Railway Estate and Rosslea as dangerous flooding is expected within the next 24 hours.
• Similar warnings were issued in parts of the Cassowary Coast with South Johnstone residents advised to leave immediately and Mourilyan residents urged to prepare to evacuate.
• The Bureau of Meteorology is warning of dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding between Lucinda and Ayr, including Townsville, as more than 600mm of locally intense rainfall is possible on Saturday (01 February).
• Flash flooding is also forecast between Tully and Cape Upstart, and inland areas including Cardwell, Ingham, Townsville, Giru and Ayr, with up to 350mm of rain expected.
• Flood watches and warnings are currently in place for several catchments and rivers with major warnings in place for the Haughton River Catchment, Herbert River, Ross River and Bohle River.
• Rainfall of up to 170mm overnight has temporarily cut some roads and bridges in Mackay and the Pioneer Valley. Access to Eungella Range was cut off on Saturday (01 February) morning, with fast-flowing creeks spilling over the mountain road.
• Mackay Airport has been impacted by the heavy rain, with a recent inbound flight (VA605) instructed to turn back to Brisbane. Roads around the airport have been blocked, with vehicle access restricted. The affected roads include Milton Street (at the intersection of Boundary Road East) and the entry road, Jack Connor Drive. Casey Avenue access is also restricted.
