Defence Force on Alert as Heavy Rains Batter Far North Queensland

Far North Queensland is facing a major flooding crisis, with record-breaking rainfall leaving entire communities stranded and emergency services stretched to the limit. The Defence Force is now on standby, ready to step in as conditions worsen.

Over the past few days, more than 1,200mm of rain has hammered the region, and floodwaters are still rising. The Herbert River at Ingham Pump Station is expected to hit 15 metres today—just shy of the 1967 flood record of 15.2 metres—but the worst may still be yet to come.

A Devastating Toll

Tragically, one person has already lost their life in the disaster. More than 400 people have been forced to flee their homes, seeking refuge in six evacuation centres. Overnight, emergency crews received a staggering 480 calls for help and carried out 11 swift water rescues.

In Charters Towers, power and water supplies have been disrupted, forcing residents to restrict water use to drinking and toileting only. Meanwhile, major supermarkets across the region have either shut their doors or been cut off by floodwaters, leaving some communities worried about food shortages.

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie has urged residents to stay calm, reassuring them that there is at least a six-week food supply in warehouses. He also encouraged anyone in need of supplies to contact local disaster management teams for assistance.

Infrastructure Takes a Hit

The town of Ingham remains completely without power after a substation was flooded, while the Ollera Creek Bridge—part of the Bruce Highway—has collapsed, further isolating communities.

Premier David Crisafulli has confirmed that the Defence Force is gearing up to help, with high-clearance vehicles and air support at the ready. He’s expected to visit the region later today as Townsville Airport reopens.

More Rain on the Way

Unfortunately, the wild weather isn’t over yet. A low-pressure system over Cape York is gradually weakening, but heavy rain is still expected in some areas. The Bureau of Meteorology is warning of potential flash flooding from Tully to Giru, with rainfall totals of 100mm to 140mm in six hours—and some places could see up to 180mm.

Some locations, including Cardwell Gap and Paluma, have already been drenched with over 600mm in just 24 hours.

Major flood warnings are now in place for the Haughton, Herbert, Ross, and Upper Burdekin rivers. Authorities are especially concerned about Aplin Weir, where controlled releases from the Ross River Dam are expected to trigger major flooding by Monday morning.

A Heartbreaking Loss

Amid the chaos, a heartbreaking tragedy unfolded yesterday when an SES rescue boat capsized, claiming the life of a woman on board. The boat, which was carrying an SES crew, hit a tree and flipped, throwing its passengers into the water. The woman’s body was found shortly after.

With floodwaters still rising, emergency crews and the Defence Force are bracing for what could be days of further chaos. For now, authorities are urging residents to stay indoors, stay informed, and above all, stay safe.