Queensland faces escalating flood risks as ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji dumps torrential rain across the state, triggering emergency evacuations and livestock losses. Over 300 properties remain without power in Clermont, where floodwaters isolated the town and forced three dramatic overnight rescues.
Critical Warnings and Rescues
The Bureau of Meteorology issued multiple flood alerts on Tuesday morning (January 13, 2026) after areas in central and northern Queensland received a year's worth of rainfall in seven days. Swift water teams rescued five people stranded atop vehicles near Clermont, including two men trapped for hours in rising waters.
Livestock Losses Mount
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli confirmed nearly 50,000 livestock are missing or dead, calling the situation "devastating for rural communities." Western regions already saturated by early January rains face renewed threats as Koji moves inland.
Ongoing Risks
Authorities urge residents in low-lying areas to remain vigilant, with Koji expected to maintain tropical storm strength through Wednesday. The system follows 2025's record flood season, raising concerns about climate-driven weather patterns across Australia's northeast.
