Heavy rain in a sodden north Queensland is far from over with only temporary easing likely this weekend, according to weatherzone.com.au.

“The Cardwell/Tully/Mission Beach region can expect persistent and heavy rain on Thursday and Friday due to a near-stationary monsoon trough. Another 300mm or more is possible by Saturday morning,” Weatherzone meteorologist Brett Dutschke said.

Much of the region has had one and a half metres of rain since the start of the year, so the ground cannot absorb much more. In just the last three days Mission Beach has gained more than 500mm, including a massive 321mm in the last 24 hours.

“This weekend will only bring brief relief as the near-stationary monsoon trough shifts a little to the north,” Dutschke said.

“Showers and thunderstorms are still likely this weekend but with lengthy dry breaks. In general, these showers and storms will amount to less than about 50mm.”

This is only likely to be temporary relief. Another burst of rain is due to arrive next week.

“The atmosphere will become more unstable again with help from a low forming offshore. Rain should increase just ahead of a surge of southeasterly winds, which will move up the coast,” Dutschke said.

“This burst of rain is not likely to be as heavy as the current bout of rain, but it will be enough to aggravate the flood situation. Many homes remain damaged and have been without roofs since being hit by Cyclone Yasi more than a month ago.”

Next week’s rain should be heaviest to the south, mainly affecting the Central Coast and Capricornia regions, where more than 100mm is likely.

– Weatherzone