Qld, NSW boaters prepare for another downpour

A low-pressure system was expected to cross into the north-eastern part of NSW today that would drag in tropical moisture from the Coral Sea. 

The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted the system is likely to bring up to 200mm of rain, similar to the amount brought in by storms that swept the state earlier this month creating unprecedented floods.

Severe weather warnings are current for both northern NSW and southern Queensland, with around 140mm to 180mm of rain predicted across a six-hour period.

The low-pressure system is also expected to develop thunderstorms in which up to 250mm could fall in a six-hour period, the bureau said.

It said the risk of flash flooding due to heavy rain was likely to be more severe than earlier this month.

The low front is expected to have moved away from the coastline by Wednesday, bringing much calmer conditions to Queensland, but some showers for the NSW coast.

The Queensland government took the unusual step of banning recreational boat traffic on the Brisbane River earlier this month in response to the amount of debris washing down it.

Marine Rescue northern zone commander Mal Jeffs said it was important that boaters were well prepared ahead of the expected flooding.

“In flooding early this month many boats broke their moorings and were damaged or sank,” Jeffs said.

“Boaters should immediately secure their vessel’s mooring or remove it from the water, fix storm covers, and consider what other actions they need to do to keep their vessel safe should river levels continue to rise.”

Jeffs advised boaters to stay home rather than head out on the water.

“Rising seas and swell in coming days will make coastal bars treacherous and conditions offshore will become increasingly dangerous with heavy rain, poor visibility and strong winds," he said.

“Even if you are intending to stay in enclosed waters, flooding on coastal rivers and estuaries may result in strong currents and submerged and floating debris.”