Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of North Tropical Coast and Tablelands and Herbert and Lower Burdekin Forecast Districts.

Issued at 4:40 pm Saturday, 8 February 2025.

Heavy rainfall possible between Tully and Ayr during the weekend and into the early part of the week.

Weather Situation: Significant rainfall may continue over the weekend about the Herbert and Lower Burdekin and the Cassowary Coast, with a monsoon trough in place, rich tropical moisture and onshore flow expected to strengthen. Enhanced rainfall due to widespread showers and isolated embedded thunderstorms is possible throughout the weekend and into the early part of the week, with extremely wet soils and river catchments leading to a higher than normal vulnerability to flash flooding.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to DANGEROUS AND LIFE-THREATENING FLASH FLOODING is forecast for parts of the Herbert and Lower Burdekin and the North Tropical Coast this weekend. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 120 to 180 mm are possible. Isolated 24-hourly rainfall totals up to 250 mm are possible. Rainfall has increased this afternoon, with isolated heavy falls possible through the remainder of the weekend, before easing early this week.

Heavy rainfall increases the potential for landslides and debris across roads.

A Flood Watch and various Flood Warnings are current for parts of northeastern Queensland. Please refer to http://www.bom.gov.au/qld/warnings for more information.

Locations which may be affected include Townsville, Palm Island, Ingham, Ayr, Cardwell, Giru, Tully, Abergowrie and Lucinda.

Emergency services advise people to:
* Park your car undercover away from trees.
* Close doors and windows.
* Keep asthma medications close by. Storms and wind can trigger asthma attacks.
* Charge mobile phones and power banks in case the power goes out.
* Put your pets somewhere safe and make sure they can be identified in case they get lost.
* Do not drive now unless you have to because conditions are dangerous.
* Tell friends, family and neighbours in the area.
* Go inside a strong building now. Stay inside until the storm has passed.