North Queensland is reeling from some of the worst rainfall and flooding it has seen in years, with emergency crews responding to over 300 calls for assistance across the region. Particularly hard hit is the city of Townsville, where significant flash flooding has led residents to evacuate to safety amid severe warnings from local authorities.
The local disaster management group (LDMG) has initiated evacuation preparations for several areas, including Cluden, Hermit Park, Idalia, Oonoonba, Railway Estate, and Rosslea, as the situation continues to escalate. Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy of the State Disaster Coordinator team emphasized the urgency, stating, “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.” Authorities aim to contact up to 4,000 households to inform residents about the deterioriating conditions.
With rainfall totals already reaching alarming levels, the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has indicated the potential for up to 500mm of rain this weekend, with isolated pockets possibly exceeding this threshold. BOM forecaster Helen Reid noted, “We are looking at being rather problematic, with several rivers already expecting major flooding.”
To compound the crisis, major river systems—including the Bohle River, Ross River, Herbert River, and Haughton River—are on the brink of overflow, leading local authorities to issue dire warnings. Communities like Mount Low and Eungella have already witnessed significant rainfall, urging residents to stay vigilant.
Emergency services are constantly working to maintain safety as floodwaters rise alongside continuous thunderstorms. Inspector Nathan Blain, District Disaster Coordinator for the area, has stressed the importance of heeding evacuation orders, saying, “Don’t put yourself at risk and stay… if the police come and knock on your door and advise you to leave, please make the decision to leave and help us out.”
The urgency of the situation is echoed across social media platforms, with local leaders emphasizing the need for residents to stay updated on conditions through emergency alerts. Evacuation centers, such as Heatley Secondary School, have been set up for those who need refuge.
The looming threat of additional rainfall has led to heightened concerns across the region. Senior meteorologist Peter Markworth stated, “Tomorrow is expected to be another big day of rainfall totals. Anywhere between 200mm to 300mm of rain is expected to fall over just six hours.” Such projections signal the possibility of life-threatening flooding, particularly for those living near riverbanks.
The situation remains precarious, especially with the heavy rain forecasted to persist throughout the weekend, potentially complicative evacuations. “We do have notifications indicating more evacuations will be needed during the course of today,” Reid warned.
Through the region, residents face the harsh realities of the flooding, with calls for emergency services pouring in for sandbagging and roof repairs. Many still recover from previous cyclones, leaving their homes vulnerable. The local State Emergency Service reported, “Most calls around Townsville have been asking for sandbagging help,” with continuing requests for repairs on leaky roofs still damaged from Cyclone Kirrily.
The city’s infrastructure is under immense strain as well, with the Bruce Highway, a major thoroughfare, closed north of Townsville due to rising floodwaters. Local authorities have cautioned residents to stay off the roads if possible, reinforcing the message from Mayor Ry Collins who reported numerous swift water rescues occurring throughout the Whitsunday region.
Adding to the chaos, Townsville's dam has reached 121 per cent capacity as of today. Councillor Brady Ellis explained, “When the dam gets to 100 per cent, it does not mean it is full. It’s primarily for flood mitigation.” Gates from the dam have been opened to relieve pressure, but officials remain vigilant about potential increases to river levels due to additional rainfall.
Despite these dire measures, Townsville Hospital has noted its emergency services are experiencing increased demand from patients with pressing medical needs. It cautioned residents to avoid unnecessary travel, adding, “Floodwaters are extremely dangerous – they can sweep children away and come with severe health risks.”
The community continues to rally as emergency management operations progress. Local resident Sean Sperling reflected on the situation, stating, “My house is fine, but we’re just afraid of what might happen overnight.” There remains hope among residents as they heed the warnings of local authorities, preparing for the worst but praying for the best.
The coming days are anticipated to be the most challenging, with major flood warnings remaining active and heavy rainfall predicted to settle across the already beleaguered region. Just how much more rain Townsville can withstand remains uncertain as local officials scramble to assist and protect impacted communities during this unprecedented flooding crisis.