One Dead and Thousands Evacuated as Floods Sweep Through Northern Australia
Australian authorities announced on Sunday that one person has died in the state of Queensland, in the north of the country, due to severe flooding triggered by torrential rains. Thousands of residents have been urged to evacuate their homes and move to higher ground.
According to official reports, the Hinchinbrook Shire coastal region, home to approximately 11,000 people and located 500 kilometers north of Brisbane, is experiencing major flooding. Several suburbs of the nearby city of Townsville have also been affected.
Regional emergency management authorities stated on Sunday morning:
“Residents in low-lying areas should gather their evacuation kits and move to safer, higher locations, as the situation poses a threat to lives and property.”
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology explained that the floods were caused by heavy rainfall from a moisture-laden low-pressure system. Rainfall totals could reach up to 300 mm (11.8 inches) within 24 hours.
The agency added that intense rainfall and destructive winds are expected to persist into early next week, depending on the strength and position of the low-pressure system.
Eastern Australia has experienced recurrent flooding in recent years, with one of the most notable events occurring in January 2023, when the Northern Territory was hit by a once-in-a-century flood due to the La Niña climate phenomenon.
