Severe flooding has wreaked havoc across Queensland and New South Wales, with emergency services conducting dozens of rescues amid record-breaking rainfall. The aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Alfred has left more than 200,000 people<\/strong> without power, as authorities warn of continued flood risks in the coming days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Floodwaters have inundated vast areas across southeast Queensland and northern NSW, prompting a large-scale emergency response. According to Queensland Fire<\/strong> and Emergency Services (QFES), swift water rescue teams saved at least 35 people trapped in rising waters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
One dramatic rescue near Palmwoods on the Sunshine Coast saw emergency teams using drones to navigate a 300-metre-wide flooded area<\/strong> to retrieve two individuals stranded on top of their vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Brisbane, emergency crews have been searching submerged vehicles to ensure no one remains trapped inside. Authorities have urged residents <\/a>to seek higher ground and avoid floodwaters, which may contain hazardous debris and wastewater.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to Queensland Premier David Crisafulli<\/a>, the scale of the disaster is unprecedented. The State Emergency Service (SES) received 3,676 calls<\/strong> for assistance in just 24 hours, marking the busiest period in its history. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The widespread flooding has also caused major disruptions to essential services, with over 200,000 people still without power across Queensland and northern NSW<\/strong>. According to Seqwater, wastewater overflows have been reported in multiple areas, increasing the risk of contamination. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Authorities have advised residents to avoid contact with floodwaters, which may contain untreated sewage, animal waste, and debris.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Schools across the region have been forced to close, impacting thousands of students. In response, the National Assessment Program \u2013 Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN<\/a><\/strong>) exams have been postponed in affected areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese<\/strong> <\/a>visited Lismore on Monday, meeting with flood-affected residents. The federal government has activated Commonwealth hardship payments for impacted communities, offering $180 <\/strong>per person and $900 <\/strong>per family in financial aid.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"