The flooded Coomera river on the Gold Coast,
© Dave Hunt/AAPThe flooded Coomera river on the Gold Coast, Queensland. The region’s popular theme parks were closed on Tuesday due to rain.
Eastern Australia is grappling with the repercussions of heavy rainfall that has sparked flash flooding in parts of Southeastern Queensland and Northern New South Wales. Over the past 72 hours, these regions have endured an intense deluge, with some areas witnessing more than two months' worth of rainfall. In a startling report, the town of Springbrook in Queensland recorded a staggering 514 mm (20 inches) of rain in a span of 48 hours, significantly overshooting the average for January.



Warnings and Preparations Amidst Torrential Rain

The Queensland Deputy Premier, Cameron Dick, has issued stern warnings about the perilous conditions, encouraging citizens to stay off the roads to evade the risk of life-threatening flash floods. Simultaneously, the Bureau of Meteorology has disseminated severe weather warnings, predicting up to 350 mm (14 inches) of additional rain in the next 24 hours. Emergency services remain on high alert, with Deputy Commissioner Kevin Walsh underscoring the quick escalation of rivers and creeks, which could potentially catch residents by surprise.

Campers near Tyalgum were rescued on Monday morning.
© Tweed SESCampers near Tyalgum were rescued on Monday morning.
Rescues and Damage

In Northern New South Wales, rescue operations are underway at campgrounds, ordinarily bustling during the holiday season, but now rendered inaccessible by the floodwaters. The severe weather has inflicted extensive damage, with fallen trees, submerged cars, and swamped homes being the most common sights. The impact of this recent deluge follows another severe weather incident over the Christmas holidays, which took ten lives and left thousands without power. As it stands, approximately 11,000 properties are yet to have their power restored.