Mt Isa floods as heavy rain falls over north-west Queensland

Torrential overnight rain has caused extensive flash flooding across Mount Isa and surrounding areas in the state's north-west.

Many local roads had gone under as well as all of the city's small bridges.

Only one bridge is above the water, preventing the city being cut off from north to south.

Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Sean Fitzgerald said there had been heavy rainfall since yesterday afternoon.

The highest fall was recorded at the Mt Isa mine, where 97.6 millimetres fell in the 24 hours to 9:00am.

"That's our highest official report," Mr Fitzgerald said.

"But there's been unofficial reports of up to 140 millimetres in the township.

"Quite a large amount of rain this morning."

Many locals came into the city centre to watch the Leichhardt River overflow.
Sam Jones, whose shed has been flooded, said he had never seen it so high.

"It's crazy," he said.

"The kids didn't sleep because of the thunder, they were too scared."

Senior Sergeant Jeff Magnus warned Mt Isa locals to stay home rather than trying to cross flooded roadways.

"You just don't cross a flooded river. That saying, you know, if it's flooded forget it, do not cross any flooded waterways," he said.

"If you can't get to work, stay at home. It's as simple as that — don't cross any flooded rivers, just stay at home and take the day off work."

The SES has not received any calls for help.

Bron: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-12-16/mt-isa-floods-as-torrential-rain-hits-north-west-queensland/8126736  | Gewijzigd: 31 januari 2017, 11:00 uur, door Joyce.s