Copperfield River Floods: North Queensland Residents Evacuate
Heavy rainfall has triggered severe flooding in the Copperfield River area of Far North Queensland’s Gulf Country. Residents have been urged to evacuate as the Etheridge Shire Council has issued an emergency alert for the region.
Copperfield River Floods: Urgent Evacuations Ordered
The Etheridge Shire Council warned of flash floods threatening the Copperfield Dam and surrounding areas. Mayor Barry Hughes emphasized the immediate need for residents in the Copperfield River and Einasleigh township to move to higher ground, specifically along the Einasleigh-Forsayth Road.
Current Situation
Reports indicate that homes are at risk of being inundated. Mayor Hughes stated, “The latest report is that houses are now being threatened with inundation if not already inundated.” Some residents have already evacuated to a designated safe zone on the outskirts of town.
Local Impact and Personal Accounts
Publican Tayla Wellby, who recently purchased the Einasleigh Hotel, is preparing to evacuate her family due to the rising floodwaters. She noted that the Copperfield River surged dramatically after heavy rains, with water levels rising quickly throughout the morning.
“I do believe upstream have had a lot more than we have, which is why we have got all the water,” Wellby said, reflecting on the speed of the water’s rise. At 6:30 AM, levels were manageable, but by noon, the bridge was covered.
- Tayla and Braydon Wellby moved 300 kilometers inland from Townsville just weeks ago.
- They have three young children: Kensli, Hadley, and Briggs.
- The family plans to retreat to a nearby hill for safety, following local advice.
Ms. Wellby stated, “We are ready to go at a moment’s notice. The car is packed, ready, and we’ll leave as soon as we need to.” She described the drastic change in their new life, humorously saying, “And now we’ve got waterfront views.”
Conclusion
The situation remains critical as residents near the Copperfield River face unprecedented flooding. Evacuation protocols are in effect, and authorities continue to monitor the conditions as they unfold.
