Torrential rain and strong winds in the city of Bundaberg in Queensland, Australia, have caused flash flooding and left over 4,000 homes without power.
Bundaberg recorded 319mm of rain in 24 hours between 02 and 03 October, according to Bureau of Meteorology figures. Over 100mm of the rain fell in 2 hours between 13:00 and 15:00 on 02 October.
Local media, quoting Bureau of Meteorology sources, said “the Wide Bay city had received more than 340mm rain on Monday, breaking a 64-year record by more than 60mm”.
Flooding caused some roads to be closed. Queensland State Emergency Service (SES) said:
“Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) crews, including Fire and Rescue and the State Emergency Service (SES), have responded to numerous incidents across the Bundaberg region following a severe storm and heavy rainfall. SES crews have been called to respond to more than 90 tasks, including roof damage and minor house flooding. Fire and Rescue crews have responded to reports of fallen powerlines. Motorists are advised that some roads are flooded and to drive with caution and to conditions.”
Warnings Issued
On 01 October, the Bureau of Meteorology issued a Severe Weather Warning for heavy rainfall for southern inland Queensland between Emerald and Roma, extending east to the Wide Bay and Fraser coasts, between Bundaberg and Gympie.
BoM said: “After many weeks of dry, hot conditions the rainfall may provide some welcome relief, however communities in the warning zone are urged to take care as this heavy rainfall has the potential for flash flooding.”
Rainfall
BoM figures 24 hour period to 03 October
- Bundaberg Alert – 319.0 mm
- Woodgate Store, Queensland – 276.2 mm
- Bundaberg Aero – 238.8 mm
Social Media
Flooding in Bundaberg- Electra St and George St cut. Don't drive through flood waters! pic.twitter.com/IjxwxI9Xi8
— RACQ (@RACQOfficial) October 2, 2017
Featured photo: File photo, illustration only – Floods in North West Queensland, February, 2016. Credit: Queensland Police
Flood Summary
Locations
B - Woodgate, Queensland
Magnitude
Bundaberg Alert - October 2 to October 3, 2017
Woodgate, Queensland - October 2 to October 3, 2017
Bundaberg Aero - October 2 to October 3, 2017
Damages
Bundaberg - October 2 to October 3, 2017
SES crews were called to respond to more than 90 tasks, including roof damage and minor house flooding.
