Northern Queensland is facing a renewed threat of flooding as forecasts predict substantial rainfall on already saturated catchments. Senior meteorologist Miriam Bradbury from the Bureau of Meteorology reported that from 9am yesterday until 5am today (AEST), Paradise Lagoon recorded an impressive 248mm of rain, including a whopping 75mm in only one hour this morning. Other areas, like Paluma in Townsville and Ingham, experienced 235mm and 127mm of rainfall, respectively.
In response to these conditions, moderate flood warnings have been issued for the Tully and Bohle rivers, with minor flood alerts for the Johnstone, Russell, and Mulgrave rivers. Bradbury noted that a flood watch is currently active from Daintree to Townsville, predicting that rivers will rapidly react to the ongoing heavy rainfall.
This torrential downpour is expected to persist over the next several days before tapering off to lighter showers later in the week. Additionally, regions in the west of northern Australia, especially Queensland’s Gulf Country, may also endure heavy rain and storms, while the remaining northern areas will see more scattered showers.
Bradbury highlighted the possibility of a “monsoonal burst” occurring, with a potential tropical low developing off the Kimberley coast. While it is unlikely to make landfall or reach cyclone strength, it could lead to heavier rainfall across the Kimberleys, Top End, and northern Queensland. As these weather patterns unfold, residents are urged to stay informed and prepared for worsening conditions.