Hundreds of thousands of people are still without power after a powerful storm system battered parts of eastern Australia, leaving behind floods, fallen trees, and major clean-up work.
The storm, linked to Cyclone Alfred, hit southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales (NSW) over the weekend, turning roads into rivers and knocking down power lines across towns and cities.
One Dead, Soldiers Injured
A 61-year-old man tragically died after getting caught in floodwaters in Dorrigo, NSW. He was last seen climbing a tree after escaping his car, but rescuers couldn’t reach him in time. His body was recovered the next day.
In a separate incident, 12 Australian soldiers were injured when their convoy crashed in Lismore, about 200km south of Brisbane, on the way to rescue operations. Two are in serious condition but all remain in hospital. Officials have sent their best wishes for a full recovery.
Power Outages for Days
At the storm’s peak, nearly 290,000 homes and businesses lost power, and many are still in the dark. Energy companies are warning it may take several days to get electricity back on.
Emergency crews have been working non-stop, with more than 6,000 calls for help made in NSW alone. Many of the rescues were for people trapped by fast-rising floodwaters in their homes or vehicles.
Weather Still a Threat
Although Cyclone Alfred weakened into a tropical low before hitting land near Brisbane, dangerous conditions haven’t gone away. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese warned that flash flooding, damaging winds, and big surf are still expected in the coming days.
“This remains a very serious situation,” he said on Sunday. “We urge people to stay alert and follow local emergency advice.”
Clean-Up Begins
As the weather slowly eases, communities are beginning the long clean-up. Streets are filled with debris, uprooted trees, and water-damaged homes. Emergency services are stretched, but more help is being sent to affected areas.
So far, Queensland police say there have been no deaths or missing people in their state due to the storm, though damage is widespread.
