Insurer RACQ has warned far north Queenslanders to remain vigilant against flash flooding and road closures after the region experienced the most significant flood in nearly 120 years.

The warning comes after the region received up to 400ml of rain in just 24 hours, inundating homes and business, particularly in Port Douglas and Daintree.

“There’s a severe weather warning in place for the area between Cardwell and Mackay, so it’s really important drivers avoid the roads, if they can,” said Lucinda Ross, RACQ spokesperson. “While a flooded road might not seem a risk, it’s easy to overestimate a vehicle’s capabilities or a driver’s own skills – you could quickly find yourself in a dangerous situation you can’t get out of.”

The Queensland insurer also urged motorists to use RACQ’s Road Conditions website over the coming days to check for changed traffic conditions and road closures.