In Australia, heavy rainfall has claimed one life, leading to the evacuation of thousands of residents.

This is reported by ABC News, as conveyed by Ukrinform.

The authorities in Queensland have announced severe flooding with rapidly rising waters in the coastal town of Hinchinbrook, which has a population of around 11,000, as well as in several suburbs of the neighboring city of Townsville.

The flooding has been caused by heavy rain that has persisted in the region since Friday. According to Australian meteorologists, the total rainfall over the past 48 hours, as of Sunday morning, could reach a catastrophic level of 800 mm.

Local residents believe this is the largest flood in over 40 years.

State authorities reiterated their call on Sunday morning for residents of low-lying areas to relocate to safer places.

According to meteorologists' forecasts, heavy rains and destructive winds in northern Queensland are expected to continue until the beginning of next week.

As reported by Ukrinform, in early January, heavy rains and downpours in Saudi Arabia caused flooding in Mecca and Medina, which are renowned pilgrimage sites for Muslims worldwide, as well as in the historic city of Jeddah. The highest level of danger was declared due to the emergency situation.

Photo: ABC News