South-East Queensland has been battered by severe thunderstorms, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Residents from Brisbane to the Gold Coast are reeling from the impact of large hail, destructive winds, and widespread power outages.
Hailstones and Hurricane-Force Winds
Reports indicate hailstones as large as five centimetres in diameter pummelled parts of Brisbane, while wind gusts reaching a staggering 96 kilometres per hour were recorded at Archerfield Airport. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issued urgent warnings across the region, including Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Redlands, Logan, the Sunshine Coast, Noosa, the South Burnett, and the Gold Coast.
Power Grid 'Smashed' – Thousands Left in the Dark
Energex reported that the storm had “absolutely smashed our network,” leaving over 65,000 customers without power. Ergon Energy is grappling with more than 40 downed power lines in the Toowoomba area, with widespread damage to poles and wires throughout the region. The Queensland Fire Department is responding to numerous power outage incidents across the south-east.
Roofs Torn Apart, SES Overwhelmed
The State Emergency Service (SES) is inundated with calls for assistance, dealing with fallen trees and downed powerlines from Ipswich to Brisbane. Crews responded to reports of roofs being torn off businesses in Toowoomba and houses in Millmeran. In Brisbane's Woolloongabba, Vulture Street and Leopard Street were closed due to significant road damage.
Multiple States Hit by Storms
Queensland isn't the only state affected. Severe thunderstorms are also lashing parts of New South Wales and Victoria. Over 200,000 lightning strikes have been recorded in Queensland alone, with another 150,000 in NSW and Victoria. Melbourne faced a severe cell earlier, prompting warnings for the city and bay. Brisbane is now in the firing line, with dangerous supercells forming and heading towards the city, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast.
Stay Safe and Informed
Residents are urged to stay updated with the latest weather warnings and take necessary precautions. These storms are dangerous and can cause significant damage. Check local news and the BOM website for the latest information. Stay safe, South Africa!