This article has been compiled from various news reports and the Queensland State Govertment website.
Update: The Insurance Council of Australia reports insured losses to 25 October 2008 as AUD$104million.
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NASA Satellite image
22 January 2008 |
Otherwise known as the Emerald Flood, in January 2008 heavy rainfall in central Queensland caused major flooding and significant damage to property, businesses, infrastructure, livestock and crops. Reports suggest some 70% of the area of the State of Queensland was flooded, an area of around 1.2 million square kilometres. The floods follow a prolonged drought. Towns predominately affected include Charleville on the Warrego River and Emerald the Nogoa River. Warnings were also issued for the major centre of Rockhampton on the Fitzroy River but flooding was largely avoided. Some 56 Government areas received assistance from the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA). This provides primary producers and small businesses affected by flood water with concessional loans of up to $10,000 and contribute to the cost of restoring public infrastructure. Some reports suggest that the damage bill to infrastructure alone is in the vicinity of $100 million.
Charleville
The Queensland Government website indicates flooding occurred around Bradley’s Gully and some 30 homes and 12 businesses were damaged on 18 January 2008. Floodwaters receded on 19 January 2008 but were expected to rise again. On 20 January 2008 flood levels were at 5.3 metres. Floodwaters continued to rise on the night of 21 January 2008. The Warrego River receded substantially on 23 January 2008. Evacuation centres were closed and resident were allowed to return home.
Emerald
Evacuation announcements commenced on the night of 20 January 2008. On 21 January 2008 the Emerald Shire Council Local Disaster Management Committee advised that the Vince Lester Bridge over the Nogoa River was closed to all traffic at 9.02am. News reports indicate the town of Emerald was declared a disaster zone by the Queensland State Government on 24 January 2008.
Fairbairn Dam, constructed in the 1972, is located some 25 kilometres south west and upstream of Emerald and is reported to have played a significant role in preventing Emerald from floods since it was built. The flood gates from the dam were opened on 18 January 2008 the first time in 17 years. In October 2007 water levels were only 15% as a result of the prolonged drought. A week before the heavy rains dam levels were only around 29%.
At 11.45pm on 22 January 2008 the Nogoa River was recorded at its peak of 15.355m. Waters receded from this time.
By 24 January 2008, 2,729 people had advised authorities of their decision to evacuate.
There were reports of looting in Emerald.
The clean up phase commenced.
Rockhampton
Although widespread flooding did not eventuate financial loss was sustained as reports of widespread evacuations throughout the area adversely affected the hospitality industry with holiday makers cancelling bookings. The Queensland Government activated flood assistance for Rockhampton. Floodwater in Rockhampton peaked on Thursday night 24 January 2008 with the Fitzroy River reaching 7.55 meters.
Mining losses
Various mines including significant coal mines were also adversely affected by the inundation and/or isolation. News reports suggest these include: -
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BHP Billiton/Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) Gregory Crinum coal mine – located approximately 50 kilometres north east of Emerald.
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Rio Tinto Coal Australia – Kestrel mine near Emerald was closed on Monday 21 January 2008.
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Rio Tinto – Blair Athol coal mine near Clermont.
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Rio Tinto - Hail Creek Mine about 100 kilometres west of Mackay.
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Macarthur Coal – Coppabella & Moorvale coal mines – temporarily closed on Monday 21 January 2008.
The impact on mines was reported to last for several months.
Author
Claim Solutions Pty Ltd.
Insurance Policy
Country: - Australia
Policy Description: - Domestic, Motor Vehicle, Commercial, Marine
Insurer: - Various
External Links
Bureau of Meteorology
