Close to 25,000 Lost Power in Queensland and Victorian Regions Following Severe Storms
Approximately 25,000 homes in southeastern Queensland were left experiencing outages on the start of the week after intense storm systems passed over the area, bringing wind gusts hitting 109km/h.
Massive Frozen Precipitation and Extensive Damage
Locals witnessed large ice chunks measuring up to seven centimeters in certain regions. The Bureau of Meteorology confirmed that different parts across the state had been impacted by large hailstones.
This afternoon's storm has absolutely smashed our infrastructure!
Utility workers were working to restore electricity service throughout the impacted areas, with nearly 70 crews activated to handle the widespread outages.
Southern State's Climate Difficulties
Meanwhile, approximately 1,000 residents in the southern state also experienced power outages after Melbourne saw its wettest day in a year and a half.
Rescue organizations responded to nearly 600 requests for assistance across the area, mostly for building damage but also for collapsed vegetation and inundation.
Most Impacted Areas
- Werribee region - experienced substantial storm damage
- Hoppers Crossing - numerous assistance requests
- Wyndham region - over 175 calls for assistance
During the peak on yesterday, more than 28,000 energy customers in Victoria were without power.
Weather Forecast
Damp conditions were expected to linger along significant areas of Queensland's east this week as a atmospheric system continued to draw in moisture against the shoreline.
The following day was predicted as the wettest day, with persistent severe weather risk predicted across various areas of both areas.
Health Warning
Public health experts cautioned that there was an greater possibility of thunderstorm-induced asthma across the countryside regions, specifically given the current weather patterns.
This warning comes after past events where similar conditions led to significant health impacts in the region.