General News
8 January, 2026
Severe weather warning issued
RESIDENTS across the Cairns Regional Local Government Area are being urged to stay informed as severe weather approaches.
The Cairns Region Local Disaster Management Group issued an advisory at 9 am on Thursday 8 January, warning a tropical low is expected to impact the North Tropical Coast on Friday and Saturday.
The Bureau of Meteorology advises the system is likely to bring heavy rainfall and damaging winds, with the potential for flash flooding and dangerous diving conditions.
Six-hourly rainfall totals of between 100 to 150mm are forecast, with isolated falls of more than 200mm possible.
Damaging winds may bring down trees and power lines, posing a risk of power outages. East to south-easterly winds are expected to average 55 to 65km/h, with gusts reaching up to 90km/h.
Separate flood watch and marine warnings have also been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology.
Sand and sandbags to help mitigate flood risk are available from Cairns Region transfer stations during normal operating hours. Disaster-related information can be reported to the Cairns Region Local Disaster Coordination Centre on 1300 360 102.
Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items, park vehicles under cover and away from trees, powerlines and flood-prone areas, and prepare for possible power outages. Those living near waterways should prepare for the risk of surface water inundation and review transport routes in case of road closures or isolation.
People who have difficulty moving quickly or rely on powered medical equipment are encouraged to activate their Person-Centred Emergency Plan, ensure medications are accessible, and organise support or transport early if needed.
Tourists, visitors, campers and caravanners are advised to check whether campgrounds are flood-prone, monitor road conditions and be ready to relocate if conditions worsen.
The next update is scheduled for 9 am on Friday 9 January, or earlier if conditions change.
In a life-threatening emergency, people are urged to call Triple Zero (000) immediately. For non-life-threatening flood and storm emergency assistance, residents can contact the SES on 132500, via 132500.qld.gov.au, or through the SES Assistance Qld app.
