Asia-Pacific

Widespread flooding cuts major highways in Australia

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-12-03 13:52

BRISBANE, Australia -- Flooding in the central Queensland has cut major highways in a number of places after heavy rain, and a warning has been issued for more flash flooding, police said on Friday.

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The Capricorn Highway between Rockhampton and Emerald was cut by floodwaters in four places on Friday.

The rural town of Sapphire, 280 kilometers west of Rockhampton in central Queensland, has been isolated and people from the local caravan park have been evacuated and moved to a local hall.

Police say the Bruce Highway between Rockhampton and eastern coastal city Mackay in Queensland is only passable by trucks and more road closures are expected.

Motorists are being warned not to try to drive through floodwaters and only to travel if it's essential.

Emergency Management Queensland has warned people not to go sightseeing in the area.