Weather experts are anticipating a new surge of extreme rain and thunderstorms in inland Australia this week, leading to the possibility of severed road connections. Queensland’s interior is expected to endure the most intense conditions due to a moisture-laden monsoonal trough, as reported by Weatherzone.
Last week’s heavy rainfall resulted in significant flooding across the far western regions of Queensland, northern South Australia, and the southern part of the Northern Territory, leaving many transport routes compromised and isolating communities. Record-setting rainfall was registered, with Birdsville in outback Queensland experiencing its most substantial downpour in five years—over 70mm within 24 hours, which is double the typical monthly amount. Similarly, Coober Pedy in South Australia and Urandangi in Queensland also recorded rainfall that significantly surpassed their monthly averages.
As the severe weather shifts focus to inland Queensland, the Bureau of Meteorology has issued a warning for a potential severe thunderstorm in north-western inland areas. These storms are predicted to bring heavy rain, which may lead to flash flooding in affected locations such as Camooweal, Selwyn, and Mckinlay. With hundreds of millimetres of rain likely across a broad territory, warnings have been issued that some isolated communities may become inaccessible.
The prolonged rainfall is expected to have lasting effects, especially in the Channel Country, primarily affecting outback Queensland. The heavy rains are likely to replenish Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre over the coming months, providing a much-needed advantage for local wildlife. However, this influx of water could also draw kangaroos and emus onto flooded roads, prompting authorities to advise drivers to exercise increased caution.
In South Australia, a separate rescue mission is set to commence today for three adults and a child stranded due to floodwaters in the far north. The group, last observed travelling from Finke toward the Northern Territory, contacted authorities recently. While food supplies have been airdropped to them, they remain trapped.
As these weather patterns evolve, communities are urged to stay informed and vigilant amidst the ongoing challenges posed by the unprecedented rainfall and flooding across the Australian interior.