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Saturday, Jan 10, 2026
Outside the box.
Queensland and Northern NSW Recover from Severe Weather as Floodwaters Recede
Emergency alerts cancelled and power restoration efforts continue in the aftermath of significant flooding.
Queensland is beginning to recover from severe weather events, with Premier David Crisafulli announcing the easing of rainfall and receding river levels, leading to the cancellation of emergency alerts statewide.
However, nearly 118,000 of the 450,000 homes that were without electricity during the adverse weather remain without power.
Energex, the local electricity company, is reportedly working tirelessly to restore power to affected households.
During a media briefing in Gold Coast, Premier Crisafulli emphasized the importance of the recovery phase, stating, "That is a significant amount," referring to the ongoing power outages affecting many families and businesses.
The state has been transitioning from response to recovery activities, with officials hopeful that the worst of the severe weather has passed.
Severe flooding resulted from the passage of an ex-tropical cyclone, causing rivers such as the Logan River at Beaudesert to peak above major flood levels at 10.72 meters.
Meanwhile, the Albert River at Beenleigh reached a peak of 6.02 meters, and the Bremer River peaked at 11.47 meters.
Although these rivers have begun to fall, the effects of the flooding are still being felt.
Significant rainfall figures have been reported across the region, with Upper Springbrook receiving the highest at 1,146mm, while Brisbane city recorded 513mm.
The cessation of emergency alerts provides a measure of relief for many residents, allowing them to start assessing the damage.
Following the extreme weather, 360 state schools reopened, enabling more than half of Queensland's school children to return to classes, subsequently aiding their parents in returning to everyday routines.
Premier Crisafulli noted that the reopening of schools increases access to essential services like healthcare.
The transport network continues to face challenges, with major roads, including the Warrego Highway, cut off at certain points.
Efforts are underway to clear blockages, with some routes, including the Cunningham Highway, having reopened.
While bus services are not fully operational, train services are currently maintaining a limited schedule.
In Ipswich, located east of Brisbane, major flooding impacted the area, but Mayor Teresa Harding expressed relief, stating, "It felt like we dodged a bullet," while noting that some families and businesses are still coping with flooding.
A full damage assessment is underway, with the local government emphasizing community support.
In northern New South Wales, evacuation centres are expected to close as the flood threat diminishes and waters recede.
Emergency crews in the Tweed region are conducting damage assessments, with several properties already classified as uninhabitable due to water damage.
Although major flood warnings have been lifted for many areas, approximately 7,500 homes and businesses remain without power
The Queensland government announced that six community recovery hubs will be established across south-east Queensland to assist residents affected by the disasters, aiming to provide the necessary support during this recovery phase.
However, nearly 118,000 of the 450,000 homes that were without electricity during the adverse weather remain without power.
Energex, the local electricity company, is reportedly working tirelessly to restore power to affected households.
During a media briefing in Gold Coast, Premier Crisafulli emphasized the importance of the recovery phase, stating, "That is a significant amount," referring to the ongoing power outages affecting many families and businesses.
The state has been transitioning from response to recovery activities, with officials hopeful that the worst of the severe weather has passed.
Severe flooding resulted from the passage of an ex-tropical cyclone, causing rivers such as the Logan River at Beaudesert to peak above major flood levels at 10.72 meters.
Meanwhile, the Albert River at Beenleigh reached a peak of 6.02 meters, and the Bremer River peaked at 11.47 meters.
Although these rivers have begun to fall, the effects of the flooding are still being felt.
Significant rainfall figures have been reported across the region, with Upper Springbrook receiving the highest at 1,146mm, while Brisbane city recorded 513mm.
The cessation of emergency alerts provides a measure of relief for many residents, allowing them to start assessing the damage.
Following the extreme weather, 360 state schools reopened, enabling more than half of Queensland's school children to return to classes, subsequently aiding their parents in returning to everyday routines.
Premier Crisafulli noted that the reopening of schools increases access to essential services like healthcare.
The transport network continues to face challenges, with major roads, including the Warrego Highway, cut off at certain points.
Efforts are underway to clear blockages, with some routes, including the Cunningham Highway, having reopened.
While bus services are not fully operational, train services are currently maintaining a limited schedule.
In Ipswich, located east of Brisbane, major flooding impacted the area, but Mayor Teresa Harding expressed relief, stating, "It felt like we dodged a bullet," while noting that some families and businesses are still coping with flooding.
A full damage assessment is underway, with the local government emphasizing community support.
In northern New South Wales, evacuation centres are expected to close as the flood threat diminishes and waters recede.
Emergency crews in the Tweed region are conducting damage assessments, with several properties already classified as uninhabitable due to water damage.
Although major flood warnings have been lifted for many areas, approximately 7,500 homes and businesses remain without power
The Queensland government announced that six community recovery hubs will be established across south-east Queensland to assist residents affected by the disasters, aiming to provide the necessary support during this recovery phase.
