Queensland, Australia, is currently grappling with severe flooding following unprecedented rainfall that has transformed the landscape between Townsville and Cairns, a region renowned for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. In just three days, Townsville received as much rain as it typically does in six months, leading to overflowing rivers and a rising water level.
Ingham, one of the hardest-hit areas, has seen crocodiles spotted in the floodwaters, prompting local authorities to issue warnings for residents to exercise extreme caution. The Australian wildlife, known for its danger, adds an additional layer of concern during this crisis.
Approximately 400 individuals have been relocated to evacuation centers, as media reports indicate power outages and the closure of many schools. Supermarkets have also been affected, with some forced to close due to flooding or inaccessibility, leading to panic buying and empty shelves. The regional government has reassured the public that there are sufficient food supplies in storage to last at least six weeks.
“We are experiencing a significant and prolonged weather event with record-breaking rainfall in many areas,” meteorologist Matthew Collopy stated, warning that further heavy rainfall is expected in the coming days. It may take several days for conditions to improve.
As Australia is currently in summer, this weather phenomenon is not entirely new to Queensland, where extreme rainfall has been recorded in previous years during this season. In stark contrast, the western part of the country is facing extreme heat, with temperatures anticipated to soar to nearly 50 degrees Celsius.