(27.12.2023) Austraila, Severe thunderstorms in Australia’s eastern states over the Christmas holidays have claimed the lives of at least six people, with three others reported missing. Tens of thousands of households in Queensland are without power due to the impact of the storms.
Police in Victoria and Queensland have confirmed the deaths, including a nine-year-old girl who was reportedly swept away in a flooded stormwater drain. Two people are missing after their boat capsized south of Green Island near Brisbane, and a 46-year-old woman is also being sought after being caught in floodwaters north of Brisbane in Gumpie.
Severe thunderstorms struck on December 25 and 26, bringing large hailstones, high winds, and torrential rains. The adverse weather conditions led to river flooding, roof damage, and fallen trees in some of the worst-affected areas.
While the Bureau of Meteorology has issued some minor flood warnings in the eastern states, further rain is forecasted. Queensland’s state-owned Energex reported that around 86,000 households remain without electricity, with severe damage to its network, including over 800 downed power lines. Restoration efforts are expected to take days.
These unfortunate events follow the impact of former Tropical Cyclone Jasper earlier this month, which caused flooding and widespread damage in Queensland. The region continues to face challenges due to extreme weather conditions, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and response measures.
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