Queensland’s weather crisis: Wujal Wujal evacuated, Cairns cut off by historic floods

Far North Queensland is grappling with a historic weather catastrophe as intense rainfall and dangerous flooding have necessitated the evacuation of the entire town of Wujal Wujal. Nine people, initially trapped on a hospital roof, have been moved to safety, but the situation remains dire.

Massive Rescue Operations in Cairns

In Cairns, the situation is equally alarming, with hundreds rescued overnight. The State Emergency Service (SES) received over 1,000 requests for assistance, and Fire and Rescue Service swift water firefighters responded to more than 370 call-outs.

Wujal Wujal’s Precarious Situation

Premier Steven Miles announced that the entire community of Wujal Wujal needs to be relocated to Cooktown. The Australian Defence Force has been engaged to assist with this massive evacuation effort.

Unprecedented Rainfall and Floodwaters

The region received over 260mm of rain overnight, isolating communities and creating dangerous conditions. In Degarra, seven people await rescue from rooftops, and two others are stranded in Bloomfield.

Daintree Residents Stranded

In the Daintree, residents have been isolated for days following Cyclone Jasper. The area has witnessed landslides and the highest water levels on record, leading to significant damage and loss of homes.

Crocodile Sighting in Ingham

Ingham residents were shocked to find a large crocodile in a swollen drain amidst the floods. This unusual sighting underscores the severity of the flooding affecting the region.

Cairns Airport Closure and Flood Warnings

Cairns Airport remains closed due to significant debris, with all flights canceled. The Bureau of Meteorology has indicated that flooding is beginning to ease around the airport area, but flood warnings remain in effect across the region.

Record-Breaking Rainfall

Yandilll recorded the highest rainfall in the last 20 hours, with 654mm, surpassing several 600mm marks. The Daintree River broke its 2019 record with a peak of 15 meters, exceeding the previous 12.6 meters.

Urgent Water Conservation Measures

Cairns Regional Council Mayor Terry James urged residents to conserve water as the city races against time to prevent a water shortage. False reports of dam failures were addressed, confirming no risk of dam failure.

Power Outages Across the Region

Approximately 14,000 homes remain without power, with Ergon Energy switching off power in low-lying areas as a precaution.