Synopsis
Northeast Australia is facing renewed major flood warnings as heavy rain returns, with concerns of flash flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology has reported record rainfall, prompting government aid for affected families.Key Takeaways
- Major flood warnings have been issued for northeast Australia.
- The BoM predicts flash flooding risks.
- Catastrophic flooding has caused two fatalities.
- Emergency services are responding to the crisis.
- Financial aid is available for affected families.
Sydney, Feb 8 (NationPress) Major flood alerts have once again been issued for northeast Australia as intense rainfall makes a return to the area.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) on Saturday announced extensive major and minor flood warnings for communities along a 300-km stretch along the coast in the North Tropical Coast region of Queensland.
A severe weather alert from the BoM indicated that the heavy rain forecast for Saturday and Sunday could result in dangerous and potentially life-threatening flash flooding throughout the region.
This area has been plagued by catastrophic flooding since February 1, leading to two confirmed fatalities and extensive damage to properties and infrastructure.
The system remains formidable, as reported by Australian Broadcasting Corporation, quoting Queensland Premier David Crisafulli on Saturday.
“While the likelihood of widespread flooding has diminished, there remains a chance for flash flooding due to swollen catchments,” he noted.
The BoM has stated that many regions have already surpassed their all-time rainfall records for February.
The bureau's advisory mentioned that rainfalls of up to 200 millimeters within six hours could occur on Saturday.
Support and rescue teams from across Australia have been dispatched to assist local authorities, as reported by Xinhua news agency, citing Australia's 9News.
A bridge on a major highway, which had collapsed and isolated several towns, has been temporarily reconstructed, allowing emergency services and supplies to reach the area via road once again.
The federal government has extended the eligibility area for personal hardship payments.
Families affected in the region are now eligible to receive up to 900 Australian dollars ($564.4) to help cover emergency essentials.
Rainfall is expected to subside by Monday.
