Flash Flooding Hits South-East Queensland
Heavy rainfall has caused widespread flash flooding in south-east Queensland, with multiple roads and schools closed due to the severe weather conditions.
Motorists have been advised to be aware of the potential for flash flooding on Friday morning, with over 150mm of rainfall recorded in Caboolture, north of Brisbane. Several people have been rescued from floodwaters overnight, with multiple roads underwater in the Burpengary area.
A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Brisbane, Caboolture, Ipswich, Jimboomba, Boonah, and Springbrook, with flash flooding expected to be the main risk over the coming days. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a watch and act prepare to leave warning for parts of Burpengary and Burpengary East.
Two public schools and six independent schools have announced they will be closed on Friday due to the flooding. Multiple roads have been closed, including those in the Caboolture region north of Brisbane.
Deputy Police Commissioner Chris Stream said people were rescued from floodwaters in two separate incidents, with members of the public assisting in the rescues. "In both cases, they've been carried out by other members of the public, and we are receiving a large amount of calls in regards to people being observed driving into floodwaters," he said.
Senior forecaster Steve Hadley warned of flash flooding in local creeks, saying "do have a look around you and keep your situational awareness high today." A minor flood warning is in place for the Barcoo River, while initial minor flood warnings have been issued for the Bulloo River and the Warrego River.
The heavy rainfall has also caused disruptions in the Scenic Rim region, with creek levels rising and conditions changing rapidly. However, the rainfall is welcome news for graziers who have been affected by drought, with crop farmer Scott Loughnan saying it will make feeding livestock and destocking easier.
