Australia (Commonwealth)_
In the wake of extreme floods ravaging northeastern Australia, hundreds of residents have been evacuated from towns, compelling them to seek refuge on rooftops to escape the escalating waters. Queensland, the severely affected state, witnessed the overnight rescue of over 300 individuals, facilitated by the deployment of military helicopters to reach areas isolated by the deluge, as officials reported on Monday.
Cairns, a renowned tourist destination serving as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, now faces near-complete isolation due to surging floodwaters. Concerns loom over the 160,000 residents potentially losing access to clean drinking water. The town experienced an unprecedented 600mm of rainfall over a 40-hour period through early Monday morning, exceeding the December average more than threefold.
In light of the calamity, all flights in and out of Cairns Airport were canceled or postponed on Monday, with floodwaters partially submerging plans. Additionally, over 14,000 properties in the region find themselves without power, according to authorities.
In the rural community of Wujal Wujal within the Cape York region, nine individuals, including a seven-year-old boy, sought refuge on the roof of a hospital. Reports of crocodiles navigating floodwaters in various rural areas, including Wujal Wujal and Ingham, add an additional layer of concern. These floods result from the heavy rains and strong winds brought about by Tropical Cyclone Jasper, which made landfall in Australia last week.
Expressing the severity of the situation, Queensland state Premier Steven Miles labeled the flooding as the worst natural disaster ever witnessed in the state. “The problem is rain won’t stop, and until it eases up, we can’t get aerial support into remote places,” Miles conveyed to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
Anticipating a substantial economic impact, Queensland Treasurer Cameron Dick warned of a “billion-dollar impact” on the state. Weather officials project more rainfall on Monday as Cyclone Jasper is expected to linger over the region. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced the readiness of the Australian military for rescue and relief efforts.
