Hundreds of thousands remain without power, roads are cut of and floodwaters are rising as ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred continues to impact south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued severe weather warnings for parts of Queensland and New South Wales, with torrential rain and thunderstorms expected to continue into Monday.
Authorities warn that the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and the Sunshine Coast could see intense rainfall today, with totals reaching up to 700mm in some areas. The downpour is expected to linger over the region until at least Monday before moving south into New South Wales on Tuesday.
Despite Alfred being downgraded to a tropical low, its effects are still being felt, with flash flooding, strong winds, and dangerous conditions continuing to impact communities with the recovery estimated to cost more than a billion dollars.
As of Monday morning, over 200,000 homes and businesses remain without power across Queensland and northern New South Wales.
Authorities say it could take over a week to fully restore power in some areas due to widespread damage to infrastructure. Residents are urged to stay clear of downed power lines and report hazards to emergency services.
Flooding and evacuations underway
Major flood warnings remain in place for several rivers, with authorities closely monitoring the Wilsons River at Lismore, which is currently at 9.29 meters and rising.
Fresh evacuation orders have been issued for low-lying areas in Northern NSW, where floodwaters are expected to rise further today.
In the past 24 hours, SES crews have responded to over 6000 incidents, including multiple flood rescues. Authorities continue to urge residents in flood-prone areas to be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
Airports opens but travel chaos continues
Despite Gold Coast and Brisbane Airports remaining open, passengers are still facing major travel disruptions.
Flight delays and cancellations continue due to severe weather with more than 70 flights cancelled in and out of Queensland since the airports opened.
Road closures and flooding are also making it difficult to access airports, with some travellers stranded.
Public transport disruptions are adding to the frustration, with services delayed or cancelled. Authorities said limited public transport would be restored to Brisbane and parts of Gold Coast if it was safe to do so.
Travellers are advised to check airline updates before the head to the airport to see if their planes are confirmed to leave and allow extra time to reach the airport safely.
Albanese to visit Lismore, meet with ADF personnel
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to visit Lismore today, meeting with ADF personnel involved in rescue and recovery operations.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has been assisting with evacuations and flood response efforts, particularly after an incident in which emergency crews were deployed to assist a stranded rescue team in rising floodwaters.
On Saturday evening, two army trucks carrying 32 soldiers from the 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment based in Brisbane overturned near Lismore due to slippery conditions caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Thirteen soldiers were injured, with six sustaining serious injuries. One remains in hospital.
Albanese praised the soldiers as "heroes" who were on their way to assist communities affected by the cyclone. He expressed gratitude to emergency services and healthcare workers for their prompt response and ongoing care for the injured personnel.
The cause of the accident is under investigation.
Severe thunderstorm added
On top of the heavy rainfall, severe thunderstorms are developing across the region, bringing the potential for damaging winds, flash flooding, and hazardous conditions.
BoM warns these storms could exacerbate existing flooding and create additional risks for emergency responders and residents.
With floodwaters still rising and more rain expected, authorities say the situation remains "dangerous".
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