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NSW and Queensland flood emergency warnings issued
Recent updates from the New South Wales State Emergency Service (SES) reveal a concerning situation regarding flooding in the region.
The Clarence River is experiencing significant flooding, prompting emergency alerts for residents on Carrs Island, Grafton, and downstream areas including Harwood, Chatworth, Warregah, and Goodwood Islands. Residents in these locations are advised to stay sheltered until the waters recede, as they are currently cut off from access.
In the Richmond River area, those in Bungawalbin have received warnings stating that leaving the area at this point is not advisable, and they should seek higher ground due to serious flooding. Similar major flooding issues have also been reported in Coraki.
Queensland has seen extremely heavy rainfall overnight, particularly in the Tweed Valley, resulting in renewed flood warnings across the region. This pattern of rainfall is expected to persist into Monday, affecting areas such as Tumbulgum.
To the south, the Macleay River is projected to approach moderate flood levels at Kempsey and Smithtown, leading to advisories for residents to prepare for potential evacuations. Areas like Hat Head, Crescent Head, and South West Rocks may also face isolation due to flooded roads.
A flood watch is currently in effect for minor flooding in parts of the state’s north-west and central-west regions.
Updated at 21.40 CET
In addition to flooding threats, there are approximately 230,000 individuals without power across both states. Over the past weekend, emergency services conducted around 30 rescue operations in southeastern Queensland and northern New South Wales.
Authorities are actively working to restore power, although the task has been complicated by ongoing adverse weather conditions, debris, and safety hazards.
Reports indicate that rescues are currently underway on Newmarket Road in Windsor, where vehicles have attempted to navigate through floodwaters. The Queensland government has reiterated the importance of exercising caution, advising the public to avoid driving through flooded areas. Conditions have been treacherous, especially after severe thunderstorms.
Budget will be delivered ‘in the ordinary course’ – Marles
On the topic of financial matters, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles addressed questions regarding the upcoming budget, stating:
“We’ve been diligently preparing the budget in accordance with our standard procedures, and submissions have been reviewed by the expenditure review committee, of which I am a member.”
He emphasized the ongoing efforts in the months leading up to the budget release, concluding, “The budget will be presented as scheduled, and we will move forward from there, especially with elections approaching in the near future.”
Updated at 21.58 CET
Deputy PM says Australia will give ‘due consideration’ to any Ukraine peacekeeping request
In discussions surrounding international matters, Marles was asked about Australia’s potential involvement in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine. He noted an upcoming planning meeting set for Paris and affirmed, “Should a request for peacekeeping forces arise, we will consider it carefully, although we must recognize that currently, there is no peace to maintain.”
He mentioned that Australian personnel are already in the UK training new Ukrainian armed forces recruits, an effort reportedly ongoing since late 2022, stating, “We are committed to supporting this conflict and are open to any formal request.”
Updated at 22.04 CET
All but one ADF personnel injured near Lismore released from hospital – Marles
Marles reported that 11 members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) injured in a recent incident near Lismore have been discharged from the hospital, with one individual remaining in stable condition but not facing life-threatening injuries. This news provides some relief as the recovery process continues for those affected by the accident that occurred on Saturday.
Updated at 22.03 CET
Marles says ‘still a job to be done’ after Alfred downgraded
On the ABC news platform, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles discussed the status of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. He remarked on the improvements in the situation but cautioned that challenges remain. “While we have seen progress, various Defence personnel are actively engaged in recovery efforts across Queensland and northern New South Wales, focusing on supporting recovery centers and assisting with welfare checks,” he stated.
Updated at 21.55 CET
‘Don’t go driving through flooded water’ – Crisafulli
In light of the flood situation, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli stressed the importance of public safety. His message was clear: “Avoid driving through flooded waters. Ensure that safety is your top priority during this disaster, as property can be replaced, but lives cannot.” He acknowledged the significant cleanup effort ahead but expressed confidence that Queenslanders would persevere through the ordeal.
Updated at 21.54 CET
NSW SES says ‘not out of the woods yet’ from Alfred
In a further update from NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns, he mentioned, “While conditions have improved in certain areas with some roads reopening, significant flooding and isolation issues persist. We need to remain cautious as the forecast indicates the possibility of continued heavy rainfall, which could complicate recovery efforts.”
Updated at 21.42 CET
Fears Brisbane homes will be inundated as dam overflows
Warnings have been issued for residents near Brisbane’s Enogerra Creek catchment, as the Enogerra Dam has reached 240% capacity and is releasing excess water into the creek system. Concerns are growing that a combination of a high tide, water release from the dam, and persistent heavy rain could potentially lead to flooding of homes.
Images from Guardian Australia document the creek breaching its banks and encroaching on local parks and streets, suggesting a serious escalation in flood conditions as the situation evolves throughout the day.
Updated at 21.44 CET
Welcome
Good morning everyone – this is Cait Kelly. I will be with you throughout the day bringing you the latest updates on the unfolding events.
This morning’s headlines indicate that significant flooding has left 1,800 individuals isolated as evacuation routes have been compromised, with ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred bringing continued heavy rainfall to northern NSW.
Additionally, another 18,500 residents have been warned of possible isolation as water levels rise. Emergency alerts remain active for over 20,300 individuals (representing roughly 9,400 households) in northeast NSW.
Ipswich City Council has issued a notice regarding flash flooding risks, with numerous flood warnings affecting large areas across the state, including the Noosa, Maroochy, and Brisbane Rivers, as well as Logan and Cooper Creek. For the latest updates, refer to the Bureau of Meteorology’s report here.
As we continue this morning, I will provide further updates on this situation as it develops.
Source
www.theguardian.com