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, home to around 11,000 residents, 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 area 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 most significant flood in over 40 years.
State authorities once again urged residents of low-lying areas to move to safer locations on Sunday morning.
Forecasters predict that heavy rains and destructive winds in northern Queensland will 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 centers 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