Far North Queensland is grappling with extensive road closures and hazardous conditions due to widespread flooding. As of February 4, 2025, the situation has severely impacted travel across the region, affecting major highways and local roads alike.

Current Road Closures

Bruce Highway

The Bruce Highway, a critical north-south artery, is experiencing significant disruptions:

  • Full closure: Between Cardwell and Ingham
  • All lanes affected: Near Moresby and between Silky Oak and Tully

Burke Developmental Road

Multiple sections of this important inland route are impacted:

  • Closed to all traffic: Near Rookwood and Wrotham
  • Closed to through traffic: Near Gamboola
  • Weight restrictions: 5-tonne GVM limit between Chillagoe and Maramie

Captain Cook Highway

This coastal highway is facing partial closures:

  • Lane reductions: Near Macalister Range
  • All lanes affected: Between Oak Beach and Palm Cove

Local Road Network Impact

Numerous local roads are closed or affected, particularly in these areas:

  • Cairns Regional: Clyde Road, Goldsborough Road, Kruckow Access, Dunne Road
  • Cassowary Coast Regional: Ellerbeck Road, Tully Gorge Road, Bryant Street
  • Tablelands Regional: Mandalee Road, Cashmere Kirrama Road

Hazardous Conditions and Restrictions

Several open roads are subject to hazardous conditions or restrictions:

  • Cape Tribulation Road: Limited to high clearance vehicles, 15-tonne GVM limit
  • Kennedy Highway: 42.5-tonne GVM limit on Barron River Bridge in Kuranda
  • Gillies Range Road: All lanes affected near Lake Barrine

Long-Term Restrictions

Some roads continue to have ongoing restrictions:

  • Gotak Road (Evelyn): Closed due to bridge damage
  • Silver Valley Road: 15-tonne GVM limit
  • Webster Road (Wondecla): 10-tonne GVM limit

Safety Advisory

Authorities strongly urge motorists to:

  • Avoid driving through floodwaters under any circumstances
  • Utilize alternative routes where possible
  • Regularly check the QLDTraffic website or app for real-time updates
  • Exercise extreme caution in areas with altered traffic conditions

The flooding situation remains fluid, with road conditions changing rapidly. Travelers in Far North Queensland (Cairns) must prioritize safety and stay informed about the latest road updates before embarking on any journey.

Visit the Cairns Disaster Dashboard for more.

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