Vital highway severed as devastating Australian floods escalate

Vital highway severed as devastating Australian floods escalate

Australian authorities are racing to aid isolated communities in Queensland after catastrophic flooding forced thousands to evacuate, knocked out power to homes, and destroyed key infrastructure, including sections of a major highway. The crisis has already claimed the life of a woman and left widespread devastation across the state’s north, with Townsville, Ingham, and Cardwell among the hardest-hit areas.

The extreme weather event, described as a “record” deluge, has already dumped nearly 1.3 meters (4.2 feet) of rain on parts of the region since Saturday, causing rivers and reservoirs to overflow. The downpours are expected to continue, further complicating rescue and relief efforts. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was briefed on the unfolding disaster on Monday, praised the resilience and unity of Australians during the crisis.

The response effort has been severely hampered by flood damage to the Bruce Highway, the key arterial route connecting Queensland’s north and south. A bridge collapse along the highway could add an additional 700 kilometers (435 miles) to some driving routes, significantly delaying the delivery of emergency supplies. The Queensland Trucking Association warned that this disruption could hinder access to vital goods for flood-affected communities.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli expressed condolences to the “tight-knit” community of Ingham after a 63-year-old woman tragically lost her life during a rescue attempt on Sunday. She was in a State Emergency Service (SES) dinghy when it capsized, highlighting the treacherous conditions emergency responders face.

Crisafulli also urged residents in the “black zone” of the flooding, which includes six Townsville suburbs, to remain away from their homes due to the ongoing threat posed by the Ross River. Authorities have warned that the situation could worsen, with the Bureau of Meteorology confirming that the area received six months’ worth of rainfall in just three days.

As floodwaters continue to rise, the Townsville Local Disaster Management Group estimated that up to 2,000 homes could be inundated before water levels peak on Tuesday. Many residents have already been forced to flee. 

Though rainfall has begun to ease, major flood warnings remain in effect for communities along multiple river systems. Authorities fear Ingham could experience its worst flooding in 60 years if the Herbert River surpasses a peak of 15.2 meters (49.8 feet).

Emergency responders continue to work tirelessly, with the SES fielding 480 calls for assistance on Sunday night alone and performing 11 swift-water rescues. Power outages persist across affected areas, leaving some communities unable to call for help.

SES Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy urged residents to remain vigilant and check on neighbors where possible. He confirmed that approximately 400 people were being housed in evacuation centers across Townsville, Ingham, and Cardwell.

Amid the crisis, authorities have also warned residents to be cautious of displaced wildlife, including crocodiles, which may have been swept into areas far from their natural habitats.

Queensland’s tropical location makes it highly vulnerable to extreme weather events, including cyclones, storms, and flooding. However, climate scientists warn that rising global temperatures and warming ocean conditions are increasing the frequency and intensity of these disasters.

Rescue and recovery efforts will continue in the coming days as the region grapples with one of its worst flood emergencies in recent memory.