Sri Lanka
USA
Canada
India
UK
UAE
Heavy rainfall and flash flooding have forced the closure of a major rail line in northern South Australia, washing away large sections of track and stranding locals, officials said.
The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) reported that the East-West rail line, also known as the Trans-Australian Railway, was shut after “track washaways of up to 100 metres in some areas” between McLeay and Bookaloo, northwest of Port Augusta. The line, which links Perth with Adelaide and eastern states and carries freight as well as the Indian-Pacific passenger service, is expected to remain closed for at least a week.
ARTC crews are inspecting sections of track between Crystal Brook and Broken Hill, as well as the Port Augusta–Whyalla corridor, to assess the full extent of the damage. Officials noted that repairs may take longer than seven days, particularly if more heavy rain hits the region. Preparations for restoration include mobilising crews and positioning materials along the affected corridor.
The flooding followed a tropical low, with Bureau of Meteorology reporting 48 millimetres of rain in Port Augusta over just six hours—its heaviest single-day total in four years. The heavy rainfall has also caused road closures in areas north of Port Augusta and around Hawker and Quorn. Swift water rescue teams and a helicopter from Roxby Downs responded to stranded residents, including a group of 15 people trapped in a rapidly rising creek near Quorn, all of whom were unharmed.
The State Emergency Service (SES) advised residents to avoid travel in affected areas over the coming week, warning that flash flooding could trap people for 24–48 hours. So far, the SES has responded to around 18 requests for help, including minor flood incidents in Port Pirie, Port Augusta, and Whyalla.
The Bureau said humid tropical air continues to bring showers to northern and eastern parts of the state, with forecasts suggesting more heavy rain in the far north and north-east over the next few days. Rainfall could exceed 200mm in some remote areas, potentially cutting off communities such as Moomba, Innamincka, and Oodnadatta along the Birdsville Track.
While the deluge is creating hazards, some regional residents welcomed the rainfall after recent dry years. Loxton farmer Tom Fielke reported receiving 19mm by early Sunday, noting the potential for a productive season after low rainfall over the previous two years.
Officials stressed that this remains a significant weather event, with some areas potentially seeing their heaviest rainfall in decades. Residents have been urged to exercise caution, follow warnings, and avoid unnecessary travel in the flood-affected zones.
