Flooding in Queensland has escalated, leading to the partial collapse of a major highway and necessitating the evacuation of thousands from their homes. With unprecedented rainfall resulting in over 1.3 meters (4.2 feet) of water since Saturday, regions such as Townsville, Ingham, and Cardwell are facing the most significant threats. As the ongoing deluge continues, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese noted the community spirit among Australians during these trying times.
Queensland Flooding: Major Highway Collapse Amid Continued Rainfall Crisis
Queensland Flooding: Major Highway Collapse Amid Continued Rainfall Crisis
Severe floods in Queensland force evacuations and disrupt vital infrastructure, claiming lives and impacting thousands.
The floodwaters led to crucial sections of the Bruce Highway giving way, a key route connecting Brisbane to regional areas, effectively extending travel distances for essential deliveries by up to 700 kilometers (434 miles). The Queensland Trucking Association expressed concerns about the logistics of delivering vital supplies as some areas remain isolated.
The floods have claimed at least one life, a 63-year-old woman in Ingham, during a rescue attempt amid the chaos. In response, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli extended condolences to affected families and emphasized the risk of returning home for those in severely impacted locales, especially in the "black-zone" areas close to the overflowing Ross River.
Authorities have reported that the region experienced an enormous amount of rainfall in a short span, with local disaster management groups forecasting that up to 2,000 homes may be at risk of flooding, some potentially reaching the second floor. Major flood warnings persist for numerous rivers in the area.
Emergency services have been tirelessly responding to the crisis, registering 480 calls for assistance overnight and conducting several swift water rescues amidst widespread power outages. The State Emergency Service (SES) Deputy Commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant, check on neighbors, and utilize available evacuation centers, which are currently housing around 400 individuals.
As north Queensland grapples with the aftermath and the ongoing threat of severe weather, experts emphasize that climate change is likely exacerbating the frequency and intensity of such extreme rainfall events. Meteorologists warn that these floods could represent the most severe flooding the region has faced in over six decades.
The floods have claimed at least one life, a 63-year-old woman in Ingham, during a rescue attempt amid the chaos. In response, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli extended condolences to affected families and emphasized the risk of returning home for those in severely impacted locales, especially in the "black-zone" areas close to the overflowing Ross River.
Authorities have reported that the region experienced an enormous amount of rainfall in a short span, with local disaster management groups forecasting that up to 2,000 homes may be at risk of flooding, some potentially reaching the second floor. Major flood warnings persist for numerous rivers in the area.
Emergency services have been tirelessly responding to the crisis, registering 480 calls for assistance overnight and conducting several swift water rescues amidst widespread power outages. The State Emergency Service (SES) Deputy Commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant, check on neighbors, and utilize available evacuation centers, which are currently housing around 400 individuals.
As north Queensland grapples with the aftermath and the ongoing threat of severe weather, experts emphasize that climate change is likely exacerbating the frequency and intensity of such extreme rainfall events. Meteorologists warn that these floods could represent the most severe flooding the region has faced in over six decades.
