Flooding in northern Queensland has caused severe destruction, but conditions are improving more quickly than expected, according to Premier David Crisafulli. Thousands of evacuated residents are preparing to return home on Tuesday. However, officials fear that hundreds of houses and businesses have been severely damaged. “It’s a disaster that’s going to test the resolve of people,” Crisafulli told the reporters.
Heavy Rainfall and Ongoing Flood Warnings
Since Saturday, parts of the region have received nearly 2 meters (6.5 feet) of rain. This extreme weather triggered power outages and persistent flood warnings. Despite the challenges, Crisafulli noted that the weather had been “really kind” in recent hours.
Residents in Townsville Allowed to Return
Although flood warnings remain in effect for three major rivers, authorities urged communities to stay cautious. Townsville residents woke up on Tuesday to lighter rain and overcast skies. Fortunately, the anticipated flood levels did not occur.
Authorities announced that residents of six previously evacuated suburbs in Townsville could now safely return home. “We believe that the danger has passed,” said Andrew Robinson, chair of the Townsville Local Disaster Management Group.
Townsville Avoids Major Flood Damage
Earlier forecasts predicted that around 2,000 homes in Townsville could be at risk. However, the city avoided the worst. “The city had dodged a bullet,” Crisafulli said.
Many locals had spent Monday night anxiously waiting to see if their homes would be affected. Some residents described the situation as being “on a knife edge.”
Severe Impact in Other Areas
Further north, towns such as Ingham and Cardwell have suffered significant damage. Flooding and road collapses have made it difficult to assess the full impact. Many areas remain without power, and authorities described the destruction as “incredible.”
“There are people who have been inundated at home, in their businesses, and in their farms,” Crisafulli told reporters on Tuesday.
Tragic Fatality and Infrastructure Challenges
On Sunday, a 63-year-old woman lost her life when a State Emergency Service (SES) rescue boat capsized. Meanwhile, over 8,000 properties remain without power, and damage to a major highway is slowing recovery efforts in some of the worst-hit areas.
Authorities Focus on Recovery Efforts
Crisafulli acknowledged that the recovery process would take time. The immediate priority is restoring power to isolated communities with the help of the army. Authorities have already managed to reopen Ingham’s hospital, along with a supermarket and a petrol station, helping residents regain access to essential services.
Climate Change and Increasing Extreme Weather Events
Northern Queensland, a tropical region, frequently experiences extreme weather, including cyclones, storms, and flooding. Climate scientists warn that rising ocean temperatures and global warming are increasing the likelihood of more intense and frequent heavy rainfall events.
In 2019, a monsoon brought nearly two weeks of torrential rain to the region, leading to severe flooding in Townsville and nearby coastal areas. The current disaster highlights the ongoing vulnerability of the region to extreme weather conditions.