Media Statement - Festive Weather System Update #4

Published on 28 December 2025

The following to be attributed to Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group Chair, Ramon Jayo, Mayor of Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

• Hinchinbrook LDMG Core Group has met this morning on Sunday, 28 December 2026 to discuss the current weather system and resolved to move to lean forward to enable deployment of staff and agency members as precautionary measures to deal with the ongoing threat of heavy rain and possible flooding forecast.
• We received a briefing from BOM and at this stage the situation remains largely unchanged with a forecast for Heavy Rainfall which may lead to Flash Flooding developing in areas between Cairns and north of Townsville late tonight, persisting through Monday.
• Six-hourly rainfall totals between 120mm to 200mm are likely, with isolated falls up to 260mm possible.
• Despite the extensive rain experienced yesterday and early this morning, river levels remain below minor at the present time and modelling suggests that the most likely scenario is that same will remain about such level into Monday morning at this stage.
• However, it is critical to understand that this circumstance may change rapidly dependent upon where the convergence settles and rainfall is experienced and this situation will be monitored closely.
• Sand and sandbags will be deployed after 4pm to the BP servo at Halifax, Carr’s farm at Cordelia, and Progress Park at Taylors Beach, and then tomorrow morning near the water tower at Forrest Beach.
• This is not currently due to concerns about riverine flooding, but rather as a precaution for residents in low-lying areas who may be worried about stormwater entering their homes from overflowing street drains and yards unable to cope with the persistent heavy downpours being experienced.
• Prior to yesterday’s events, all drainage systems were relatively dry given the recent dry spell so most of yesterday’s heavy falls was simply soaked into the environment as is evident by the limited river rise response this morning.
• However, with catchments now becoming wetter, it is anticipated that drains may not be able to absorb as much.
• Can I just remind you all that heavy rain bursts may cause flash storm water flooding in low areas when table drains or kerb and channelling on road systems simply can't cope.
• We do anticipate that sheet flow across roads will occur during periods of torrential rain if occurring so please be extra vigilant when driving in rain and particularly at night.
• Details of road closures occurring throughout the district can also be found on Council’s disaster dashboard.
• The dashboard will be continuously updated by 7am and 2pm each day for your convenience.
• As always, it is imperative that you remain vigilant and continue to monitor the BOM and Council’s Disaster Dashboard for further notices and particularly changing conditions.