URGENT UPDATE: Severe rainfall is battering far north Queensland as Tropical Cyclone Koji approaches the coast, bringing with it an imminent threat of flooding. The category one storm is forecasted to make landfall between Ayr and Bowen on Sunday morning, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
Heavy rains are currently overwhelming regions including Ayr and Mackay, with wind gusts reaching up to 100 km/h impacting the popular Whitsunday Islands. Overnight, rainfall totals have already exceeded 200mm in areas west of Mackay, with the heaviest downpours expected over the next 48 hours.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli commended local communities for their preparedness in facing this weather event. “I do believe that people have prepared brilliantly for the rain that will come,” he stated on Sunday. Premier Crisafulli emphasized the importance of ongoing vigilance as the storm approaches, stating he is confident in the community’s response.
Warnings have been issued for much of the northeastern Queensland coast, stretching from Townsville to Mackay, which includes Bowen, Proserpine, and the Whitsunday Islands. Authorities are alerting residents about the potential for flash flooding, particularly between Townsville and St Lawrence, and are advising that tides may rise above normal levels from Cardwell to Mackay.
The rainfall could exacerbate conditions in already saturated catchment areas, increasing the risk of significant flooding. As Tropical Cyclone Koji crosses inland on Sunday morning, rapid weakening of gales is anticipated, but the risk of flooding remains critical.
In the northwest, communities in the Gulf Country are grappling with major flooding, with significant livestock losses projected along the Flinders River. Local officials are monitoring the situation closely as the storm progresses.
Residents are urged to stay informed and heed all official warnings as this developing situation unfolds. Stay tuned for more updates as the impact of Tropical Cyclone Koji continues to evolve.
