In Queensland, Australia, devastating floods triggered by record rainfall have wreaked havoc across the region, resulting in a significant portion of a major highway being washed away. Townsville, Ingham, and Cardwell are among the worst-hit areas, with a reported casualty and thousands forced to evacuate. Since the deluge began, some locations have received an astonishing 1.3 meters (4.2 feet) of rain in just three days.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted how Australians have come together to support each other during this crisis, although he cautioned that the risk from floodwaters remains high. The collapse of parts of Bruce Highway has disrupted access for rescue teams and could increase travel distances for delivering essential supplies by around 700 kilometers (434 miles).
Local leaders expressed condolences for a 63-year-old woman who lost her life in a rescue attempt. The Bureau of Meteorology indicated that the area has received six months' worth of rain in a matter of days, with up to 2,000 homes at risk of flooding. Emergency services are overwhelmed with calls for help and have launched numerous swift water rescues, as power outages hinder communication efforts.
Despite forecasts suggesting a gradual easing of rain, major flood warnings continue for several rivers in the region. Climate experts warn that warmer temperatures are likely causing more extreme weather events, which could lead to even worse flooding scenarios in the future.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted how Australians have come together to support each other during this crisis, although he cautioned that the risk from floodwaters remains high. The collapse of parts of Bruce Highway has disrupted access for rescue teams and could increase travel distances for delivering essential supplies by around 700 kilometers (434 miles).
Local leaders expressed condolences for a 63-year-old woman who lost her life in a rescue attempt. The Bureau of Meteorology indicated that the area has received six months' worth of rain in a matter of days, with up to 2,000 homes at risk of flooding. Emergency services are overwhelmed with calls for help and have launched numerous swift water rescues, as power outages hinder communication efforts.
Despite forecasts suggesting a gradual easing of rain, major flood warnings continue for several rivers in the region. Climate experts warn that warmer temperatures are likely causing more extreme weather events, which could lead to even worse flooding scenarios in the future.
