05 Feb 2019 | 11:16 PM UTC
Australia: Heavy rain forecasted for Townsville (Queensland) until Feb. 8 /update 4
Continuous heavy rains forecast for Townsville (Queensland) until February 8, further flooding possible; two deaths confirmed by authorities as of February 5
Event
Townsville (Queensland) is expected to experience further heavy rain until at least Friday, February 8, as the city struggles with severe flooding. At least 650 people have been evacuated and 11,000 homes are without power as of Tuesday, February 5. On Tuesday, authorities confirmed the deaths of two men due to the waters. Floodwaters have reportedly receded in some areas, though further rain in the coming days may slow progress or cause some areas to flood again. Associated power, telecommunication, business, and transportation disruptions, including road closures, are likely in the coming days and weeks.
Townsville Airport (TSV) reopened on Monday, February 4 at 14:00 following its closure on Sunday evening. Residual delays and service disruptions are possible in the coming days.
Context
Townsville received over 100 cm (39 in) of rain over a seven-day period as of Sunday, February 3. The area typically experiences seasonal monsoons, though the amount of rainfall in recent days matched average annual totals.
Advice
Individuals in the Townsville area are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate flooding and transportation disruptions (including numerous flight delays and cancelations), and remember that walking or driving through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater and chemical products; all items having come into contact with floodwater should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded. Adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders).
