Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding in Queensland as Ex-Cyclone Koji Moves Inland
The north and central regions of Queensland are experiencing relentless heavy rainfall as Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji continues its inland journey. This has led to dangerous flash flooding, with several communities already impacted. On Sunday night, multiple people were rescued from rising floodwaters, and severe weather warnings for intense rainfall are in effect from Mackay to Gladstone and for inland areas on Monday.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) warns that six-hourly rain totals exceeding 250 millimeters could trigger life-threatening flash floods. The category one cyclone made landfall between Ayr and Bowen around 9 a.m. on Sunday, subsequently weakening into a tropical low-pressure system. It moved inland west of Proserpine and followed a west-northwesterly path over the Central Highlands and Coalfields district.
The Mackay hinterland has received over 300mm of rain since Sunday morning, adding to the already saturated coastal and inland areas. Major flood warnings are in place for the Georgina River, Connors-Isaac River, and Flinders River. Additionally, a flood watch is active for rivers between Ayr and the Wide Bay, as well as adjacent inland catchments.
Flood Rescues and Community Resilience
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli expressed his gratitude to the rescue crews who saved several people stranded in floodwaters. In Gracemere, near Rockhampton, a swift-water rescue team came to the aid of a woman, two children, and two dogs whose vehicle was submerged around 11:30 p.m. Mr. Crisafulli highlighted the spirit of community during such crises, emphasizing that people's lives are more valuable than material possessions.
In Mackay, a man was rescued after being swept down the flooded Pioneer River while attempting to reach his yacht. Onlookers watched anxiously as he hopped into an inflatable tender as darkness fell. Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) volunteers found the man downstream after he managed to anchor his craft. The man was not wearing a life jacket and had been trying to check his 40-foot yacht.
Rain 'Exacerbating' Riverine Flooding
BOM forecaster Miriam Bradbury explained that the latest rain, following several days of very wet weather, has increased the risks of life-threatening flash flooding. The rain is falling on already saturated river catchments, exacerbating ongoing riverine flooding. Approximately 3,000 homes were without power, mostly in the Mackay and Whitsundays regions, but the Bruce Highway has since reopened.
Winds gusts of up to 113 kilometers per hour were recorded at Hamilton Island as the ex-cyclone approached the mainland, but winds are expected to ease today. However, the BOM warned of an ongoing risk of damaging winds if thunderstorms develop.
Risks of Landslides and Trees Falling
Communities have been warned that wet soil could lead to trees toppling along the northeast tropical coast, with landslips also a risk around steep and hilly terrain. The ex-cyclone's strong winds and rough ocean conditions off the north Queensland coast caused several boats to be ripped from their anchorages and pushed to shore.
George Canfield, a local from Airlie Beach and an experienced yachtsman, described the ex-cyclone as 'full-on.' He witnessed the severe weather's impact on other locals' boats, expressing sadness and highlighting the resilience of the community in the face of adversity.
