Read this article reproduced from this month's issue of TFK.
Record Floods
Big floods hit the Land Down Under last week. Overflowing rivers in northeastern Australia cut off major highways, destroyed crops and flooded more than 20 cities and towns in the state of Queensland. At least 200,000 people were affected by the floodwaters, which peaked on January 5.
The flood damage will cost Australia billions of dollars. "This is a major natural disaster, and recovery will take a significant amount of time," said Australia's Prime Minister, Julia Gillard.
The disaster began on December 25, when a cyclone hit Australia's northeast coast. Days of heavy rain caused rivers to overflow. The flood spread across an area the size of France and Germany. In the coastal city of Rockhampton, the river rose to 30 feet. Residents were warned to stay away from floodwaters. The fast-moving water was strong enough to sweep cars away. Snakes and crocodiles were spotted in the water. The floodwaters could take a month to dry up.
The flood is having an impact around the world. Queensland exports half the world's coal that is used to make steel. Most of the state's coalfields are unable to operate, forcing a rise in coal prices.
4 comments:
The saddest thing about this article is that 200,000 people's lives are endangered.-lucia
It is sad that Australia has to pay billons of dollars. Then that 200,000 people are effected by the floods.
trinity
The saddest thing about this article is that 20 cities and towns were distoryed which means familys homes.Also,the most suprising thing is that the coal prices will go up and they didn't mention nothing else.-Jalia
that is so sad cant belive how big that flood is.makes me wanna cry!
:[.poor kids poor familys I would hate to be there! this article is so sad 200,000 people are affeted liz and sam
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