Queenslanders are on edge as ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji continues to drench the state with record-breaking rainfall. As of this morning (Jan 13), the Bureau of Meteorology has flood warnings in place across central, northeast and northwest Queensland after some areas saw more than a year's worth of rain in just one week. 🌧️🚨
In Clermont, a small town about 750 km northwest of Brisbane, low-lying residents were urged to head for higher ground yesterday afternoon (Jan 12). By Tuesday morning, floodwaters had cut power to over 300 homes in the town of around 3,000 people. Authorities say three people were rescued overnight from the roofs of stranded cars after swift water rescue teams rushed in to help. 🚤✨
Meanwhile, two more drivers managed to find their own way to safety after becoming trapped on their car roofs near Clermont on Monday night. Thankfully, there have been no reported casualties so far. 🙏
Ex-Cyclone Koji slammed into Queensland’s northeast coast on Sunday morning (Jan 11), bringing damaging winds and epic downpours. Now pushing westward across the state, it’s a stark reminder that Queensland’s rainy season can be as unpredictable as it is intense.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli warned reporters on Monday that communities in western regions—already soaked earlier this month—need to stay vigilant. With nearly 50,000 heads of livestock missing or presumed lost, the human toll may be low, but the impact on farms and local economies is huge. 🐄💔
If you’re in northern or western Queensland, keep an eye on updates from the Bureau of Meteorology and follow any local evacuation orders. Stay safe, stay dry, and keep your emergency kit ready! 💧🆘
Reference(s):
Flood emergency prompts widespread warnings in Australia's Queensland
cgtn.com
