Queensland weather warning: Heavy rainfall, life-threatening flash-flooding hits state’s north

Residents across northern and western Queensland are being urged to prepare for the worst as the region braces for heavy rainfall and life-threatening flash-flooding.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, heavy rainfall is forecast to persist across parts of the Gulf Country, Northern Goldfields, Upper Flinders, North West and Central West regions.

Six-hourly rainfall totals of 60 to 110 millimetres are likely on Tuesday, with the potential for locally intense rainfall bringing totals of up to 150 millimetres, particularly during the morning.

Meteorologists warn that this heavy rain could lead to dangerous and potentially life-threatening flash flooding. While conditions are expected to ease later on Tuesday, authorities stress that risks remain high in the short term.

The severe weather also poses a threat to cattle and other livestock across affected pastoral areas.

Emergency services are urging residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, warning that roads may become hazardous with little notice.

People are advised to secure pets, charge mobile devices in case of power outages, and ensure children are supervised. Motorists are also strongly discouraged from driving unless essential.

“I can’t stress enough, don’t drive in floodwaters. People are driving through streets that have water in them, and that tends to push water through houses,” Mayor of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, Theresa Millwood, told Sunrise on Tuesday.

“We don’t need to be putting peoples lives at risk if it is not necessary. If you don’t need to be out there then don’t be. I know you want to have a great time and we want to have a great time and we want you to but you need to stay safe in the meantime.”

For the latest updates, residents are advised to monitor official weather warnings and emergency advice throughout the day on the BOM website.