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Australia braces for widespread storms and flash floods
22 Feb
Summary
- Intense rainfall up to 160 mm expected in Queensland and NT.
- Dangerous flash flooding and damaging winds pose threats.
- Bushfire-affected areas in Victoria face landslide risks.
Across Australia, a severe weather system is bringing heavy rain and thunderstorms to central and southern regions. Every state and territory is expected to experience storms by Sunday. Significant rainfall, with totals of up to 160 mm in 24 hours, is forecast for western Queensland and central Northern Territory.
This intense weather brings a high risk of dangerous, life-threatening flash flooding and damaging winds of about 90 km/h. Remote communities in the Northern Territory have already recorded exceptional rainfall. The system is also predicted to move into northwest New South Wales by Monday.
South Australia and the Northern Territory anticipate flooding and blocked roads from Sunday through Wednesday as the weather system interacts with a cold front. Southern states, including Victoria, are also set to experience rain and humidity, with potential for localized totals up to 60 mm.
In Victoria, areas recently affected by bushfires are at heightened risk of flash flooding, landslides, and debris flow due to the wet and windy conditions. Evacuation warnings are in place for a bushfire near Gaffneys Creek.
