Tropical Low 12U is making its presence known in the region, with a 60 percent likelihood of escalating into a cyclone, according to meteorological predictions.

Dean Narramore from the Bureau of Meteorology shared insights into the current situation, noting that although the system is positioned a few hundred kilometers northeast of Cairns, its impact is already being felt.

“Rainfall has already increased significantly south of the system, particularly around the Mackay-Central Coast area, where widespread precipitation is developing,” Narramore explained during an appearance on Today.

He added, “As we progress through today and into tonight, the northern areas will also experience increasing rainfall as the low-pressure system draws nearer.”

The Bureau anticipates extensive rainfall into tomorrow, predicting totals ranging from 100mm to 200mm, with some isolated areas potentially receiving up to 400mm.

Winds are also expected to pick up, with gusts of 80km/hr to 100km/hr into tomorrow.

“The rain is of most concern because we still have a lot of flood warnings current between Cairns and around the Townsville area, and this additional rainfall is going to lead to further and widespread river level rises,” Narramore said.

The current warning zone covers Port Douglas to Airlie Beach, including Cairns, Innisfail, Townsville, Bowen, and Proserpine.