Exceptional monsoon rains have caused severe flooding in parts of Australia's north‑eastern state of Queensland.

Cars and livestock have been swept away over a large area around the coastal city of Townsville. Emergency crews are evacuating people on rafts.

Officials warns up to 20,000 homes could be flooded if the downpours continue.

A dam has reached twice its capacity and water is being released to avoid putting further strain on it. More rain is expected in the coming days.

[Source: BBC]