In Australia, thousands have been forced to flee their homes after torrential rainfall has caused flooding in northern Queensland. Authorities confirmed the death of a woman.

Meteorologists say these could be the worst floods in the region in more than 60 years. Authorities are warning that flood waters could rise up to second-storey level in a situation they described as dangerous and life-threatening.

According to Queensland State Premier David Crisafulli, more than 700mm of rain has fallen on parts of North Queensland in the past 24 hours and there is concern that “record rainfalls” will continue till Monday.