Heavy rain, dangerous lightning, and flash flooding have caused significant disruptions across Queensland’s south-east, including the cancellation of multiple Anzac Day services. The Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast were hit hardest, with over 200mm of rain in some areas, forcing the cancellation of at least two dawn services and several marches.
On the Sunshine Coast hinterland, emergency services were dispatched to rescue two people from their cars as several roads were closed. Nambour, one of the worst-hit areas, recorded nearly 140mm of rain in just three hours early this morning. Floodwaters also overwhelmed Petrie Creek, causing significant damage and washing away more than 300 chairs from the planned Nambour dawn service.
The cancellation of the Nambour service was particularly disappointing for local organisers. Wes Davidson, President of the Nambour RSL sub-branch, shared his frustration, noting the significant effort that had gone into planning the event. The heavy rain also caused widespread damage to the area, including flooding of homeless camps, which led to the destruction of tents and personal belongings.
Queensland Fire and Rescue performed multiple rescues throughout the morning, including two swift-water rescues of individuals trapped in floodwaters. Lightning strikes caused further injury, with two women being hospitalized with minor burns and neck pain from separate strikes.
The Bureau of Meteorology reported that rainfall was expected to ease as the weather system moved towards Brisbane and the Gold Coast, though the potential for thunderstorms continues. A minor flood warning has been issued for multiple rivers, with ongoing concerns about flooding in the region.
Source: Swifteradio.com
