Heavy rainfall has caused significant flooding in parts of southeast Queensland, prompting emergency warnings and evacuations as local authorities work to manage the ongoing storm conditions. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued severe thunderstorm warnings for the region, with forecasts indicating the wet weather will persist until at least early next week.

On Thursday, intense thunderstorms and heavy downpours led to rapid flooding in multiple areas, turning roads into waterways and forcing residents to seek shelter in community buildings. Among those affected was a driver trapped in floodwaters at Morayfield, who was rescued from his sinking four-wheel drive by a Brisbane-based ABC reporter, Will Murray, and a bystander. Video footage of the rescue circulated widely on social media.

The BOM reported more than 140 millimeters of rain fell in under three hours in several locations, including Burpengary, Capalaba, and Burpengary East. Rain measurements recorded as of midday Thursday included 163mm at Mount Reservoir, 159mm at Ellenbar, 168mm at Sheep Station Creek, and over 140mm at Burpengary. These conditions prompted a “watch and act” warning for low-lying areas within Moreton Bay and surrounding communities.

Senior meteorologist Sarah Scully informed the public that the storm system was expected to remain active throughout the weekend. “Showers and storms are expected to continue across Queensland, including the southeast, through the weekend and it’s not until early next week that some dry air mass will start to push in,” she said.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli addressed the situation during a Thursday press conference, emphasizing the state’s preparedness and urging residents to exercise caution. “We’ve done the work and this is typical storm season rain, and I have every faith that people will do the right thing and handle it,” he said. The government has pre-positioned resources to respond to both fire risks and severe weather events during the transition into storm season.

Moreton Bay Councillor Matt Constance highlighted local efforts to provide safe refuge points. Eight libraries and community halls have been opened to those seeking shelter from the flooding risk. “People can seek some dry weather and shelter there during the day to keep safe, but we are encouraging everyone to stay off the roads,” Constance advised. He also noted that community warnings were issued in advance to encourage residents to prepare their homes for the heavy rainfall.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to remain vigilant as the region faces several days of unstable weather.