Australian town declared disaster area

Residents in Townsville in North Queensland have been evacuated, as the coastal city has been declared a disaster area after heavy rain triggers the worst flooding in a century.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, major flood levels have been reached in some parts with a months' worth of rain coming down in just one day.

The affected area covers 700 kilometres, from Cairns to Mackay.

Army personnel have been called in to help with sandbagging to keep the rising waters at bay. 

Local authorities advised residents to avoid using roads and move to higher ground if necessary.

More from International

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • Off Script with Chris, Robbie & Sonal

    5:00pm - 7:00pm

    The UAE’s alternative take on news, entertainment and sport. Join Chris, Robbie and Sonal as they cut through the clutter to bring you the news, entertainment and sport stories that actually matter.

  • Extra Time

    7:00pm - 8:00pm

    Chris & Robbie bring you the latest from the sporting world plus interviews with upcoming and legendary sporting stars.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Flying Taxis

    It sounds like an episode of The Jetsons, but the sight of flying taxis whizzing around our cities could be much closer than you think.

  • Tough penalties for deliberate tax evasion

    The UAE has said that tougher penalties will come into force from 1st August for not keeping proper corporate tax records.