Australia’s East coast experienced heavy rain over the weekend, causing flooding in parts of Queensland and New South Wales. The storm, initially expected to be a tropical cyclone, weakened but still left 200,000 homes without power and more than 700 schools closed. Residents were urged to evacuate or stay indoors as water levels continued to rise in some areas, with more rain in the forecast. The city of Ipswich was declared a disaster area, and surrounding suburbs were evacuated. Cleanup efforts began in towns where floodwaters receded, with power being restored to many.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that workers affected by the storm would be eligible for welfare payments for up to 13 weeks. In Lismore, New South Wales, military trucks assisting with rescue efforts overturned, injuring 13 personnel. One person was killed during the crisis after disappearing in a flooded river near Dorrigo, New South Wales. Albanese cautioned residents to not be complacent as flood warnings remained in effect.
Cyclones are common in Queensland’s north but rare in the southeast. The storm weakened before landfall, preventing a more severe disaster. Authorities had been concerned about a repeat of past devastating floods in the region. Overall, the damage from the storm was not immediately clear, with ongoing cleanup efforts and assessments needed.
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