A deadly flash flood disaster has struck Australia’s northeast, killing one person and forcing thousands to evacuate after intense rain caused widespread flooding across the region. Since Friday, large parts of Queensland’s North Coast were submerged, and Ingham and the city of Townsville nearby were hardest hit.
The authorities ordered people to evacuate in low-lying areas, especially in the most vulnerable suburbs of Townsville. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli confirmed on Sunday that one person had been killed in the Ingham region, a woman who drowned when a rescue boat overturned as it tried to navigate floodwaters. Five others were rescued from the boat. His heart was with the bereaved family, according to Premier Crisafulli.
Life-threatening conditions have mounted, with Townsville suburb of Bluewater becoming an area which the authorities declared emergency alerts yesterday. Residents around the city, who are to be most concerned by the devastating floodwaters rise, were moved out by lunchtime yesterday to evacuate from threatened areas. Together with the threatening flood, local residents are given caution to alert themselves to also be aware for the presence of crocodiles as they move out in anticipation of flood due to displacement on areas where water flows.
Torrential rain from two tropical low-pressure systems has already led to 24-hour rainfall totals of over 600 millimeters or 23 inches in some areas. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology also warned of continued heavy rain and strong winds that could lead to further flash flooding.
The Herbert River is near Ingham and will hit levels that have not been seen in 60 years. Queensland authorities warned that preparation and evacuation advice must be taken seriously to mitigate the impact of this unfolding disaster.