Flooding in Northeast Australia Claims One Life, Thousands Urged to Evacuate

Heavy flooding in northeast Australia has resulted in one death and prompted authorities to urge thousands of residents to evacuate to higher ground, Reuters reported. The flooding, primarily affecting Queensland’s Hinchinbrook Shire—home to around 11,000 people—was caused by torrential rains from a low-pressure system rich in tropical moisture. Nearby Townsville has also experienced significant impacts.

Regional emergency management officials warned that residents in low-lying areas should prepare evacuation kits and seek safety, as the situation poses a threat to life and property. Rainfall totals in the region are expected to reach up to 300 mm (11.8 inches) within a 24-hour period.

This recent flooding follows a pattern of severe weather in Australia, including “once in a century” floods that affected the Northern Territory in January 2023. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, with potential for further heavy rainfall and damaging winds into early next week.