Prepare Now For Possible Flooding

Back
Published
31st January 2025

UPDATED 02/02/2025 10:25am: NO LONGER CURRENT

PREPARE NOW FOR POSSIBLE FLOODING – Cassowary Coast Region – 3:00pm, Friday 31 January 2025

ADVICE

Warning area: Cassowary Coast Region

This warning is issued by Cassowary Coast Regional Council on behalf of the Local Disaster Management Group.

The Bureau of Meteorology has a Flood Watch issued for coastal and adjacent inland catchments south of Cairns to Mackay, including the Johnstone and Murray Rivers.

MODERATE TO MAJOR FLOODING LIKELY ACROSS PARTS OF THE FLOOD WATCH AREA FROM SATURDAY.

A tropical low in the Coral Sea is enhancing onshore winds and driving heavy rainfall across the North Tropical Coast and Central Coast. Catchments are already wet and will respond quickly to further rainfall.

Current Flood Warning – Johnstone River (DQ20715)

  • Moderate flooding possible at McAvoy Bridge and Innisfail Wharf from overnight Friday into Saturday.
  • Minor flooding likely at Mourilyan Mill Friday evening.
  • North Johnstone River: Expected to exceed minor flood level (5.00m) Friday evening, with possible moderate flooding (6.00m) overnight.
  • South Johnstone River: Expected to exceed minor flood level (8.00m) Friday evening, with further rises possible.
  • Johnstone River at Innisfail Wharf: Likely to exceed minor flood level (5.00m) Friday evening and may reach moderate flood level (5.50m) overnight.

A Severe Weather Warning is also current for parts of the North Tropical Coast, Tablelands, Herbert, and Lower Burdekin. Isolation of communities and disruption to transport routes are possible over the next few days.

Impacts in Your Area

  • River and creek levels are rising.
  • Flooding is expected near rivers and creeks.
  • Some roads may be flooded and impassable.
  • Public transport services could be affected.
  • Heavy rainfall may create dangerous driving conditions.

What You Should Do

  • Move valuables, vehicles, and livestock to higher ground.
  • Ensure you have enough food, water, medicine, and pet supplies for at least five days.
  • Charge mobile phones and prepare for power outages.
  • Obtain sandbags to block water entry points.
  • Stay away from rivers and creeks.
  • Secure boats, jet skis, and pontoons.

If You Decide to Leave Early

  • Move to a safe, high location away from flooding.
  • Take essential items including pets, medicine, cash, and important documents.
  • Lock windows and doors before leaving.
  • Never drive through floodwaters—turn around and find an alternate route.

More Information

Cassowary Coast Disaster Dashboard – disaster.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au

Visit www.bom.gov.au/qld/warnings for updates.

For road closures, visit QLD Traffic or call 13 19 40.

Learn how to prepare for flooding at qfes.qld.gov.au/prepare/flooding.

An update will be issued when conditions change.

If your life is in danger, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

For flood and storm emergency help, call the SES at 132 500 or download the SES Assistance QLD app.