Far north Queensland residents are being warned of “life-threatening” flooding despite ex-tropical Cyclone Jasper being downgraded to a tropical low.
Cyclone Jasper made landfall on Wednesday afternoon, crossing as a category two storm near Wujal Wujal and weakened late in the evening.
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Sky News weather meteorologist Bradlyn Oakes said flash flooding could come soon as 9.30am on Thursday, when a high tide is expected aggravated by a storm surge.
“This could lead to large amounts of flooding especially when we have this storm surge,” he said.
“And 24-hour totals of rain could be up to half a metre. So, we’re watching a large amount of wet weather that could cause life-threatening flash flooding.”
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned of torrential rain, leading to potential flash flooding along the already affected coast with six hourly rainfall totals of up to 150mm. Pockets of 250mm have also been forecasted.
Areas between Cooktown and Cairns could experience the worse of the rainfall, with the BOM saying “dangerous and lift threatening flash flooding” could occur as rivers swell.
The BOM says major flooding is likely at Daintree Village from Thursday morning, with up to 390mm of rainfall already recorded in the 24 hours up to 5am.
The Daintree River at Daintree Village is already at 7.55 metres and rising, with moderate flooding.
Mossman River has also recorded significant river level rises, reaching similar levels as the January 2019 flood event.
“Remember: If it’s flooded, forget it,” the BOM said.
Flood emergency assistance can be sought through the SES on 132 500, while people in life threatening emergencies should call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Current emergency information is available at www.qld.gov.au/alerts