Australia’s North Queensland area has been hit by massive floods. One person has died and thousands have been asked to evacuate Townsville City and adjacent areas after the intense rain triggered dangerous flash floods. A travel alert has been issued in the region and the authorities have shut down Townsville Airport for the time being.
Torrential Rains Cause Flooding In Australia; Thousands Evacuated
Since Friday, Australia’s North Queensland has been receiving heavy rainfall. The fast-moving floodwaters rose to dangerous levels forcing the authorities to move thousands of residents of Townsville, a coastal region, and nearby areas to safer places.
According to NDTV, the flash floods have claimed one life and inundated homes and businesses in the area. In two days, it rained more than more than a metre (39 inches) in the area. These massive storms engulfed homes and roads in muddy waters. A lady in her 60s was killed Sunday when the rescue boat she was in flipped over in the flood-hit rural town of Ingham.
The flood also swept away a section of a concrete bridge at Ollera Creek. This hampered and cut off the state’s main coastal road, the Bruce Highway, from the area. Furthermore, more than 11,000 properties in northeastern Australia remained powerless due to the floods.
Travel Alert Issued For Northeastern Australia
Townsville is a popular coastal tourist destination in North Queensland and lies near the Great Barrier Reef. This area in Australia has now been declared a ‘black zone’, which means an emergency situation due to floods with immediate evacuation. According to reports, Townsville Airport has been closed due to the “significant weather event” and a travel alert has been issued in the area. As per the latest update, the roads in the area are cut off and there is no power.
If you’re in Australia or planning a trip soon, please check for all the latest updates about the floods.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@Theoasisreport1 & X/@Chargey76
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.