‘Metre of rain’ set to be dumped on parts of north QLD

Meteorologists have upgraded a severe weather warning for north Queensland to include 80km/h wind gusts and rainfalls of up to 300mm, with the potential to damage roofs and cause “dangerous and life-threatening” flash flooding.

Meteorologists have upgraded a severe weather warning for north Queensland to include winds with the potential to damage roofs and cause “dangerous and life-threatening” flash flooding.

Strong gale wind gusts of 70-80km/h have the potential to damage infrastructure in the weather event, which was expected to ramp up overnight.

The weather bureau issued the severe warning for the North Tropical Coast and Tablelands, and the Herbert and Lower Burdekin districts.

A flood watch has also been issued for catchments north of Rollingstone to the Daintree, with potential for flash flooding.

Meteorologist Harry Clark said the low-pressure system and trough, which as of Thursday afternoon was out to sea, was predicted to make its way to the north Coast.

Mr Clark said it was expected to remain a threat over coming days.

“Daily rainfall totals of 50-100mm are likely, with localised 24-hour totals of 200-300mm are possible, most likely from today into Friday,” Mr Clark said.

“Parts of the tropical east coast, especially the Cassowary Coast, could receive a metre of rainfall over the next few days.”

Mr Clark said the locations of the heaviest falls were dependant on where the system broke land.

Mr Clark said a strengthening ridge would combine with a coastal trough to whip up strong winds.

It’s prompted the bureau to issue a strong wind warning from Cairns to Mackay with the potential to extend along the east Coast on Friday to as south as the Sunshine Coast.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

Daintree River

Mossman River

Barron River

Mulgrave and Russell Rivers

Johnstone River

Tully River

Murray River

Herbert River