Parts of western Queensland are currently submerged due to several days of intense rainfall, with forecasts indicating that the wet conditions are likely to persist. The town of Eromanga, located near Quilpie, was particularly affected, experiencing a staggering 300 millimetres of rain over a three-day period. Local resident Laura Josie described the scene as a “sea of water,” highlighting the severity of the flooding.
Josie expressed her concerns about the rising water levels, which threaten to inundate numerous houses, including her own. The ongoing chaos is causing widespread anxiety among residents as they brace for potential further inundation.
In Birdsville, located 600 kilometres to the west and typically known for its scorching temperatures, locals like hotel manager Ben Fullager are dealing with an unusual shift in weather, as the rain has brought a cooler and damp atmosphere. Fullager noted that the current conditions are a stark contrast to what is typically experienced in the area.
The relentless rainfall has resulted in road closures and the isolation of several towns, significantly impacting daily life. Meteorologist Shane Kennedy from the Bureau of Meteorology has warned that additional rainfall is on the horizon. He reported that certain areas in western and central Queensland, along with parts of the southern interior, could expect daily rainfall totals between 100 to 150 millimetres over the coming days.
The situation remains precarious as communities await further updates and hope for a reprieve from the deluge.