NewsBite

Heavy rain, flash flooding warning for Townsville

A waterspout has been captured over the city just after a severe storm warning was issued for large parts of North Queensland, with heavy rain and possible flash flooding expected this afternoon. WATCH THE VIDEO

Monsoon trough developing near the north coast of the Top End

A waterspout has been captured over the city just after a severe storm warning was issued for large parts of North Queensland, with heavy rain and possible flash flooding expected this afternoon.

The Bureau of Meteorology warned heavy rain and thunderstorm activity was possible for the northeast tropics over the next few hours.

Locations which may be affected include Townsville, Palm Island, Ingham and Mareeba.

The Woodlands Alert to the south of Townsville recorded 60mm of rain in an hour.

Sam Staib sent this thru, water spout over South Townsville around 2:15.

Posted by Wally's Weather on Monday, 9 March 2020

ACCESS THE LATEST NEWS from just $1 for 28 days:

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advise people should:

* Never drive, walk or ride through flood waters. If it’s flooded, forget it.

* Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.

* Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm.

* Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.

* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.

The storm warning comes as the chance of Tropical Cyclone Gretel strengthens.

Bureau senior forecaster Michael Knepp said the most likely situation was the cyclone, if it were to form, was to head southeast away from the coast but could move towards or along the coast.

Originally published as Heavy rain, flash flooding warning for Townsville

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/townsville/heavy-rain-flash-flooding-warning-for-townsville/news-story/51120aed2e1bb66f996f3e0c20923163