Police Warn Against Floodwater Driving

Queensland police are urging residents to avoid driving through floodwaters as further heavy rain is expected across northern parts of the state. Authorities are monitoring a tropical low off the east coast that could bring more widespread rainfall in the coming week.

Acting Townsville District Chief Superintendent Dean Cavanagh said motorists should check road conditions before travelling and never attempt to cross flooded roads. Police warned that even 15 centimetres of moving water can sweep away a vehicle, while submerged roads may conceal damage, debris and strong currents.

Emergency crews have carried out several flood rescues in recent days. On January 5, a 79-year-old man was winched from the roof of a campervan trapped near Dimbulah, west of Cairns. The following day, a man, a woman and a dog were rescued from a stranded vehicle on the Camooweal–Urandangi Road near Mount Isa. A 25-year-old Northern Territory man has since been charged with driving without due care and attention in connection with the incident.

Police also warned parents to keep children away from floodwater, which may contain hidden drains, sharp objects, contamination and wildlife. Drivers are being advised to slow down, expect livestock on roads as animals seek higher ground, and check local council disaster dashboards and Queensland weather and traffic services for updates. In life-threatening emergencies, residents should call Triple Zero (000).