Australia’s prime minister has warned that the impact of a severe tropical storm that struck over the weekend is ongoing, with parts of two states still facing dangerous flooding on Monday. Despite the initial threat diminishing, the aftermath of heavy rain and flooding along Australia’s east coast led to one fatality and multiple injuries. While the storm did not reach the predicted level of chaos, over 200,000 homes and businesses lost power, and more than 700 schools were closed. Residents near rivers and creeks were advised to evacuate or stay indoors as water levels continued to rise in some areas, with further rain expected. The city of Ipswich declared a state of emergency, and some surrounding suburbs were ordered to evacuate. Cleanup efforts began in towns where floodwaters started to recede, and welfare payments will be available to workers impacted by the storm. Military personnel assisting with rescue efforts in New South Wales experienced an accident, resulting in injuries. Unfortunately, one person lost their life after being swept away in a flooded river in New South Wales. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant as flood warnings persist, emphasizing the importance of avoiding flooded areas. While cyclones are common in Queensland’s north, they are rare in the densely populated southeast region bordering New South Wales. The storm, initially anticipated to develop into a cyclone, weakened before making landfall, alleviating fears of a repeat of past devastating floods in the region.
