What’s Happening?
Severe flooding continues to impact North Queensland, prompting extensive rescue operations and power restoration efforts for the past three days.
Queensland Fire and Rescue swiftwater crews have rescued multiple individuals trapped by rising waters, while Ergon Energy Network is working tirelessly to restore electricity in affected areas.
The situation remains dynamic, with crews navigating challenging conditions to provide emergency assistance.
Why It Matters?
Flooding has stranded, displaced, and left without electricity thousands of residents. Given that flash flooding will continue to threaten the community, rescue operations remain a priority while ensuring public safety.
In terms of access, power outages complicate efforts to restore normalcy. A scale this immense requires the cooperation of a joint emergency response with resilient infrastructure to mitigate damage and facilitate relief work.
Local Impact
- Ingham has been one of the most severely affected areas; a large portion of the town is still under water and the restoration of electricity is also going to take time.
- Emergency rescue personnel from Mackay to Cairns evacuated men, women, and even children with their pets.
- Heavy rain has resulted in blockade of major roads such as parts of the Bruce Highway, making recovery difficult.
Giru situation yesterday morning. / Photo from Ergon Energy Network Facebook page
By the Numbers:
- 7 rescues and 50+ assisted: Queensland Fire and Rescue has evacuated many people, including children and pets, from the flood-affected areas. QFD Rescues
- Over 8,000 homes and businesses without power: 6,800 of these are in flood-ravaged Ingham, with additional outages in Townsville, Giru, Cardwell, and surrounding areas.
- Key restoration progress: Palm Island, Balgal Beach, Bluewater, and Maggie Island have had power largely restored, but Cardwell and Paluma remain cut off.


Zoom In
Swiftwater firefighters have rescued dozens of people including children and pets trapped by the floodwaters.
Most of this has been happening around the Hahn River near Basalt. With heavy rains expected to fall, teams stand ready to answer distress calls fast.
Meanwhile, Ergon Energy Network crews are working at a great pace to restore electricity. Electricity is back on at Palm Island, Balgal Beach, Rollingstone, and Bluewater.
Works are being conducted in Giru and Cardwell. However, Ingham is a real concern because crews cannot inspect damages due to flooding.
Zoom Out
Beyond the immediate disaster, long-term recovery will need to be undertaken with a sense of urgency – rebuilding damaged power infrastructure, fixing road networks, and ensuring that homes and businesses can safely re-engage with the grid.
Authorities are paying close attention to fluctuating flood levels, in particular in Townsville, but continued rainfall means that the danger remains.
What to Watch Next?
- Power restoration in Ingham: Aerial assessments will be resumed as soon as the weather permits, which will help in formulating a detailed plan to reconnect the town.
- Timeline for flood recovery: As the floodwaters recede, authorities will assess the damage to infrastructure and determine when the affected areas can safely regain services.
- Transport and access: Key highways and bridges, such as the Macrossan Bridge over the Burdekin River, are being watched, and reopening is crucial for recovery efforts.
- Updates from Ergon Energy Network Facebook page
Safety Reminders:
Authorities advise residents to keep away from floodwaters, avoid fallen power lines, and use generators properly.
Updates from to restoration plan and keep Outage Finder updated: https://bit.ly/409vKIk.
Generators can be lifesavers, but only when used safely. Follow these guidelines: https://bit.ly/3CnOfQp.
If you see someone in distress, call Triple Zero (000) right away.

A Heartfelt Thank You
In times like these, the dedication and bravery of emergency responders, swiftwater rescue crews, and power restoration teams make all the difference.
Their tireless efforts to keep communities safe, rescue those in danger, and restore essential services do not go unnoticed.
We at The Townsville Times want to extend our gratitude to every individual on the ground, in the air, and behind the scenes working to protect and support North Queensland. Your hard work is truly appreciated.
Our thoughts and prayers are also with all those affected by the floods. We hope for your safety, strength, and a swift recovery in the days ahead.