Torrential rain set to continue into the weekend is bringing more misery to those already affected by severe flooding in eastern Australia. According to weather forecasters, the worst hit area will be the southern half of Queensland. Many communities have already watched as there homes have succumbed to the deluge.

The heavy rains, which began last month, have already claimed some 1200 homes and it is estimated well over 10,000 have suffered damage because of the floods. Although the waters of the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton appear to be receding, officials warn that levels are likely to remain above 8.5 meters for some time yet.

Residents to the south, in St George, have been preparing for the worst by filling sandbags. However, officials have said they no longer expect the Balonne River to rise to the levels previously predicted.

As flood waters begin to recede in some areas many have been warned that returning to their homes could be hazardous because of the proliferation of snakes. Shane Muirhead, a resident of Rockhampton, said that everywhere he looked there were snakes. In some areas, salt water crocodiles are also becoming a nuisance.

Brad Carter, Rockhampton’s mayor, said residents refusing to leave their homes were endangering those who had to navigate the snake infested waters to deliver supplies. The floods may also have an effect on the world’s steel prices, warned Anne Bligh, Queensland’s premier. She said 75 per cent of the mines which produce coking coal to fire steel furnaces were out of action because of the flooding.