27 Feb 2022 | 04:34 AM UTC
Australia: Severe weather in eastern Australia causing transport and business disruptions as of Feb. 27 /update 3
Severe weather in eastern Australia causing transport and business disruptions as of Feb. 27. Evacuations ongoing.
Event
Severe flooding and related disruptions are ongoing in eastern Australia as of Feb. 27. Flooding has killed at least six people in Queensland and one person in New South Wales. Evacuation orders are in place for the town of Gympie due to severe flooding. Authorities have issued a flood warning for Brisbane city and surrounds due to rising water levels in the Brisbane river. A severe weather warning for heavy rainfall and damaging winds remains in effect for South East Queensland and parts of Burnett, Darling Downs, Granite Belt, and Wide Bay in Queensland. A similar warning is in effect for Northern Rivers and parts of Mid North Coast, and Northern Tablelands Forecast Districts.
Authorities warn that the heavy rain might result in floods and flash floods, as well as landslides and debris across roads. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Floods and flash floods have cut off many roads across Queensland; authorities have advised residents to limit travel and to check road conditions before travel. RiverCity Ferries services have ceased operation due to ongoing floods. Translink announced the suspension of most bus services and all trains of Queensland Rail Network. Flooding could further block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Brisbane Airport (BNE) warned of possible delays due to severe weather conditions affecting the facility. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds and large waves trigger hazardous sea conditions.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites. Electricity and telecommunications service disruptions are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Allow extra time for travel in the affected area and plan alternative routes if necessary. Do not drive on flooded roads.
