13 Jan 2023 | 10:07 AM UTC
Australia: Adverse weather forecast across parts of northeastern Queensland through at least Jan. 15
Heavy rainfall forecast across northeastern Queensland, Australia, through at least Jan. 15. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of northeastern Queensland through at least Jan. 15. As of late Jan. 13, the BOM has issued a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall over parts of Herbert and Lower Burdekin, North Tropical Coast and Tablelands, Northern Goldfields and Upper Flinders, and Central Coast and Whitsundays forecast districts. Locations that may be affected include Charters Towers, Bowen, Townsville, Palm Island, Ingham, Innisfail, Ayr, Proserpine, Cardwell, Hamilton Island, Giru, and Lucinda. The heavy rainfall will bring a threat of flash flooding or the coastal region between Innisfail and Bowen from early Jan. 14 before the threat extends to adjacent inland areas and the coast north of Mackay later Jan. 14 and into Jan. 15. Six-hourly rainfall totals of 10-18 cm (4-7 inches) are likely across the affected region, with isolated 24-hour totals of over 30 cm (12 inches) possible. A Flood Watch has been issued for North Tropical Coast and Central Coast catchments. A strong wind warning has been issued along the Mackay Coast Jan. 14. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change 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. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy 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.
Flooding could 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 airports in the region. 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. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
