Severe weather warning shifts south

The Douglas Shire was spared from most of the forecasted wild weather yesterday as the remnants of ex-tropical cyclone Imogen veered south, however, other areas in the Far North did see some heavy rainfall.

The Douglas Shire is today no longer included in the Bureau of Meteorology Severe Weather Warning for the Far North with the warning area now shifted, running from south of Cairns to Ayr.

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“A trough extends from ex-Imogen eastward through the North Tropical Coast and Tablelands to the south of Innisfail and is forecast to slowly move southward during Tuesday,” the Bureau said.

“The heaviest rainfall is currently occurring on the eastern flank of the low into the middle and lower parts of the Herbert River Valley, although rainfall rates have not been especially large over the past 6 hours.

“Potential remains in place for widespread heavier rainfall to develop through the warning area between Tully and Townsville in the next six hours and then extend southeastward to about Ayr during the remainder Tuesday. Areas of heavy rain may also redevelop north of Tully to the Babinda area later today.”

Areas north of Babinda are no longer likely to experience widespread heavy rainfall, however, thunderstorm activity may produce some more localised heavy rainfall in this area, especially Tuesday afternoon.

Several Far Northern rivers, including the Mossman and Daintree Rivers, still remain on Flood Watch.

A number of regions south of the Douglas Shire copped a drenching in the last 24 hours.

Tung Oil Weather Station west of Innisfail received 261mm while the nearby Macro Street Station recorded 230mm. Bucklands Station near Babinda recorded 228mm, while Gowrie Creek near Ingham received 211mm and Copperlode Dam near Cairns reported 210mm of rain.

Closer to home, Low Isles only recorded 37mm while Whyanbeel Creek received 33mm in the last 24 hours according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

QLD Traffic Road Conditions

Numerous roads across Cape York are currently closed due to flood water and Queensland Police have warned motorists to check conditions before venturing out.

“Already this year, Far North Queensland (FNQ) has seen some extreme localised flooding which has provided significant hazards for local road users,” a police spokesperson said.

“Floodwater is unpredictable, powerful and full of unknowns. As always, back it up.

“During significant rain events, it is always important to avoid travel where possible and regularly check for updates with the Bureau of Meteorology and Department of Transport and Main Roads.”