Key Points:
- Situation: Cairns Airport closed due to anticipated record flooding in far north Queensland.
- Reason: Ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper brings heavy rain and potential for severe flooding.
- State of Emergency: Queensland Premier declares a “serious weather emergency” across several regions.
- Flood Risk: Major rivers predicted to reach record levels, posing significant threat to communities.
- Evacuations: Residents in low-lying areas urged to prepare for potential evacuation orders.
Details:
- Cairns Airport shut down on Sunday, December 17th, as a precautionary measure ahead of the expected downpours.
- Ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper, downgraded from a tropical cyclone, is dumping heavy rain across Far North Queensland, raising concerns about widespread flooding.
- Queensland Premier, Steven Miles, declared a “serious weather emergency” for several regions, including Cairns, Mareeba, Douglas, and Cassowary Coast.
- The Bureau of Meteorology warns of record river levels in the Johnstone, Tully, and Mulgrave rivers, potentially exceeding previous flood marks.
- Residents in low-lying areas along these rivers are advised to prepare for potential evacuation orders and to stay informed about the latest weather warnings.
- Emergency services are on high alert and preparing for potential rescue operations in inundated areas.
Current Status:
- As of Sunday afternoon, December 17th, the full extent of the flooding is still unfolding.
- Heavy rain is expected to continue for the next 24-48 hours, with the peak of the flooding anticipated on Monday.
- Residents are urged to stay indoors, avoid flooded roads, and closely monitor official updates and warnings.
Additional Information:
- For real-time flood warnings and updates, visit the Bureau of Meteorology website: https://bom.gov.au/
- Queensland Government emergency information and disaster recovery resources: https://www.disaster.qld.gov.au/
- For live updates and news coverage, follow reputable sources like the ABC or SBS News.
This situation is rapidly evolving, and it’s crucial to stay informed and follow safety instructions from authorities. Remember, prioritizing your safety and that of your loved ones is paramount during extreme weather events.
Please note: This information is based on the latest updates available as of Sunday, December 17th, 13:04 IST. It’s recommended to keep checking for the latest developments and follow official guidance.
Is Cairns International Airport open?
Yes, Cairns Airport is open 24 hours a day and has two terminals, separated into Domestic and International Terminals.
Are there international flights out of Cairns?
T1 International: Qantas, Jetstar, Silkair, Air New Zealand, Hainan Airlines, and Air Niugini all operate international flights from T1 of Cairns Airport.
Can you sleep overnight at Cairns Airport?
The airport is open at 4.00am, or two hours before the first flight of the day, and closes after the last flight of the night. It is not possible to stay at the airport overnight, and passengers will be asked to leave the terminal buildings.
Information in Detail :
Cairns airport closed as Queensland premier declares serious weather emergency amid record flood fears
Cairns Airport in Far North Queensland has been closed as the state braces for a “serious weather emergency” brought on by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper. The Bureau of Meteorology is warning of record river levels and widespread flooding, with residents in low-lying areas urged to prepare for potential evacuations.
The situation
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper is dumping heavy rain across Far North Queensland, with the Johnstone, Tully, and Mulgrave rivers expected to reach record levels. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a flood watch for the entire region, warning that the flooding could be “life-threatening.”
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has declared a “serious weather emergency” for several regions, including Cairns, Mareeba, Douglas, and the Cassowary Coast. She has urged residents to “take this very seriously” and to “prepare for the worst.”
Evacuations
Residents in low-lying areas along the Johnstone, Tully, and Mulgrave rivers are being advised to prepare for potential evacuation orders. Emergency services are on high alert and are prepared to conduct rescue operations if necessary.
What to do
If you live in a low-lying area, it is important to stay informed about the latest weather warnings and to be prepared to evacuate if necessary. You should also have a plan for what to do if you are caught in a flood.
Here are some tips for staying safe during a flood:
- Never drive through floodwaters.
- If you must evacuate, do so early and follow the instructions of emergency services.
- Do not enter flooded buildings or homes.
- Be aware of the risk of flash flooding.
- Stay indoors and stay safe.
Conclusion
The situation in Queensland is serious, but it is important to remain calm and to follow the instructions of emergency services. By taking steps to prepare, you can help to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
I would also like to add that it is important to support those who have been affected by the floods. There are a number of charities that are working to provide relief to those in need. You can donate to these charities or volunteer your time to help with the recovery effort.
Here are some resources that you may find helpful:
- Bureau of Meteorology: [https://bom.gov.au/]
- Queensland Government emergency information: [https://www.disaster.qld.gov.au/]
- ABC News: [https://www.abc.net.au/news/]
- SBS News: [https://www.sbs.com.au/news/]
I hope this blog post has been helpful. Please stay safe and take care.
Additional tips for staying safe during a flood:
- Turn off your electricity and gas at the main switch.
- Move your furniture and valuables to higher ground.
- Sandbag your doors and windows to prevent floodwater from entering your home.
- Have a battery-powered radio and a torch on hand.
- Keep a first-aid kit and emergency supplies in your home.
Please note that this is just a sample blog post. You may need to modify it to fit your specific needs.
I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.