Australia: A Dead Flood – Evacuation Orders and Crocodile Warning · Global Voices

A woman died today (02.02.2025), in the northwest, which is at mercy. Authorities have instructed residents to leave their homes and watch out for crocodiles. At a time when torrential rains and floods continue in Australia, Queensland authorities have known that 600 mm of rain has fallen within 24 hours in certain areas of the state. A woman was found dead, after the boat she was aboard sank, near Ingham, police announced. CORVERSE Residents in six suburbs of Townsville, a city with a population of about 200,000 people, were today invited to leave their homes. According to city disaster management team coordinator Zack Dawes, 2,100 homes are in danger. However, “about 10%” of the community did not obey evacuation orders, he pointed out. The next hours will be “really critical” for Townsville, said a Queensland police officer, Graeme Payne. The rise in water level led to the closure of the local airport, while authorities warn that about 100 schools are currently not considered safe for students. CORVERSE State Prime Minister David Crisafouli warned of the risk of “record rains” in the following days. “You take preventive measures and security measures (…) prepare for the worst and, please, listen to the recommendations” by the authorities, appealed from the ABC national television network. The Environment Ministry issued a warning to citizens about the presence of crocodiles, who could be moved looking for calmer waters. “Wait to see crocodiles in all watercourses in the northern part and the northernmost end of Queensland, even if there are no warning signs,” he warned in a press release published by local media.