UPDATE: Severe thunderstorms have unleashed chaos across Queensland, leaving over 67,000 homes without power and causing significant damage as wind gusts soared past 95 km/h late Sunday afternoon. Authorities and residents alike are reeling from the storm’s immediate impact.
The energy company Energex reported the widespread outages primarily affecting southeast Queensland, including major urban centers like Brisbane, Toowoomba, and Ipswich. As the storm intensified, lightning forced a halt to the Pacific Cup Men’s rugby league match between Samoa and Tonga, with spectators ushered to safety.
Footage shared on social media showed violent hail, intense lightning, and significant property damage across affected areas. Wind gusts reached an alarming 96 km/h at Archerfield Airport in Brisbane, prompting urgent warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology.
Miriam Bradbury, a senior forecaster, highlighted the ongoing threat as more storms are predicted. “We are going to see a severe storm potential through Sunday afternoon and evening across central parts of Victoria, including much of the greater Melbourne area,” she stated, with warnings extending into southern New South Wales.
Residents are advised to brace for heavy rainfall, which could lead to flash flooding and hazardous driving conditions. The storms are being driven by a deep low-pressure system moving across southeastern Australia, raising concerns for those in its path.
Moreover, health officials warn of an increased risk of epidemic thunderstorm asthma in northern Victoria. This phenomenon occurs when high pollen levels coincide with specific thunderstorm conditions, causing sudden asthma symptoms for many, including those without prior conditions. The Victorian Chief Health Officer urges residents to carry reliever puffers, recalling the devastating epidemic in November 2016, which led to ten fatalities.
In Queensland, severe weather conditions are expected to persist, with dampness likely lingering along the eastern coast next week. According to forecasts, Tuesday is anticipated to be the wettest day, as a low-pressure trough continues to funnel moisture into the region.
Authorities are urging all residents to stay alert and heed local warnings as conditions remain volatile. “It’s a good idea to be keeping a close eye out for any warnings we do need to issue,” Bradbury concluded.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops, and ensure your safety during these severe weather conditions.
