Due to a monsoonal trough covering northern Queensland over 200 millimetres of rain has fallen around the McKinlay Shire, cutting roads in all directions.
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Julia Creek has become completely isolated due to rising floodwaters cutting the surrounded roads and highways.
The Flinders Highway from Julia Creek to Richmond remains closed with floodwaters cutting the road at Corella Creek and Alex Creek with long delays expected.
Julia Creek to Cloncurry is also closed with water crossing at Canal Creek. The road south from Julia Creek to Kynuna is also closed.
Mayor Belinda Murphy said residents were pleased and relieved to have received rain.
“This is the first time in years it has covered most of the McKinlay Shire. I am pretty sure most people across the shire have received good rain,” Cr Murphy said.
“Our shire has been very lucky to get underneath some good rain. The difference between this event compared to previous years, is that it is good soaking rain and we have had it for a week now.
“However we do need to make it clear this is not drought breaking rain. The cracks in the ground are huge and will take more rain and some follow up rain for it to really assist the region.”
Cloncurry is also partially surrounded by closed roads after receiving over 130mm in some areas.
The Landsborough Highway from Cloncurry to McKinlay has closed again due water over the road at McKinlay River, Nora Creek and Bishop Creek.
The Cloncurry to Dajarra road remains closed due to water over the road at Duck Creek, Slatey Creek and Malbon River.
The Cloncurry to Four Ways remains closed with the road cut at Malakoff Creek. The road is closed to all traffic in both directions with long delays expected.
Rain is expected to continue in the coming days with Julia Creek and Cloncurry forecast:
Saturday predicts 100 percent of 45-100mm with a top of 28 degrees.
Sunday forecasts 95 percent of 45-100mm with a top of 27 degrees
Monday forecasts 90 percent of 25-70mm and a top of 27 degrees.
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Samantha Campbell
Samantha Campbell (nee Walton) has worked for regional and rural publications across New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory. She is currently writing for the North Queensland Register based in North West Queensland. Email: samantha.campbell@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Samantha Campbell (nee Walton) has worked for regional and rural publications across New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory. She is currently writing for the North Queensland Register based in North West Queensland. Email: samantha.campbell@austcommunitymedia.com.au
