Queensland floods: Highway cut off as Australian disaster worsens

Queensland, Australia is experiencing severe flooding, forcing thousands to evacuate, causing power outages, and washing away sections of a major highway. Local authorities are working tirelessly to assist isolated communities affected by the disaster. The floods have tragically resulted in the death of one woman and caused widespread devastation across the state's northern regions, with residents of Townsville, Ingham, and Cardwell being among the worst affected.

According to authorities, "record-breaking" rainfall is expected to continue, with some areas receiving nearly 1.3 meters (4.2 feet) of rain since Saturday, causing rivers and reservoirs to overflow. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was briefed on the response efforts on Monday, stated that the disaster has showcased "the best of the Australian spirit." He wrote on X, "I'm seeing Australians helping each other in times of need," adding that the "flood threat" would persist for days in the affected areas.

Efforts to aid the worst-hit areas have been hampered by flood damage to parts of the Bruce Highway, a major 1,673-kilometer (1,039-mile) thoroughfare running the length of the state. The Queensland Trucking Association told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation that the partial collapse of a bridge along the highway could add 700 kilometers to journeys and slow the delivery of crucial supplies. Queensland Premier Steven Miles expressed his sympathy for the "close-knit" town of Ingham after a 63-year-old woman died on Sunday when the State Emergency Service (SES) dinghy she was in capsized during a rescue operation. "We are deeply sorry for their loss," he told reporters on Monday.

Miles also urged all residents in flood "black zones," including six suburbs in Townsville, not to return home, as the nearby Ross River still poses a threat. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology stated that the region has received the equivalent of six months of rainfall in three days. The Townsville Local Disaster Management Group warned that around 2,000 homes could be flooded as water levels rise, with a peak expected on Tuesday. Many homes have already been inundated. One resident of Ingham told the Townsville Bulletin that after her home was affected, she waited seven hours for emergency services to help evacuate them. "I was crying, I was hysterical. When I called [emergency number] 000, I even had someone hang up on me, saying, 'We're busy'," she said.

Although the rainfall has now eased, major flood warnings remain in place for communities along several rivers. Miles warned that Ingham could experience its worst flooding in 60 years if the Herbert River exceeds a peak of 15.2 meters. Emergency responders continue to work around the clock, with the SES receiving 480 calls for assistance on Sunday night and carrying out 11 "swift water" rescues. Widespread power outages continue, leaving some communities unable to call for help. SES Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy urged people to remain vigilant and look after neighbors where possible. He added that approximately 400 people are currently being housed in evacuation centers in Townsville, Ingham, and Cardwell.

Authorities have also asked local residents to be aware of crocodiles, which may be lurking in streams far from their usual habitats. Northern Queensland is located in a tropical region and is prone to destructive cyclones, storms, and flooding. However, climate scientists warn that warming oceans and a heating planet are creating conditions for more intense and frequent extreme rainfall events.