A series of violent storms hit Brisbane and the wider south-east Queensland region on Monday. The event left nearly 100,000 customers without electricity. The severe weather resulted in widespread destruction, with trees brought down and roofs stripped from homes and businesses.
The violent storm approaching Brisbane
Power Outages Impact Thousands
Energex reported significant electricity disruptions, with outages peaking at 161,000 properties across the region. By Tuesday morning, about 96,000 residents still had no power. Over 600 powerlines remained down, blocking access and hampering restoration efforts. Crews worked throughout the night and continued repairs at first light. Energex brought in staff from Ergon Energy Network to assist. “We’ve called in reinforcements from our friends at Ergon Energy Network and have 300 guys and gals ready to continue the effort today, with the support of vegetation contractors to clear debris,” Energex stated.
Power Outage reported by Energex
Storm Brings Hail and Destructive Winds
The storms began around 2:30pm on Monday, rapidly intensifying as they moved through metropolitan Brisbane. Winds exceeded 110 kilometres per hour, with hailstones reaching up to 12 centimetres in diameter in some suburbs, including Manly and Alexandra Hills. Over 880,000 lightning strikes were recorded in south-east Queensland during the afternoon and evening, putting further strain on the region’s infrastructure.
A 13cm hailstone that landed in the Brisbane suburb
Damage to Homes, Businesses, and Infrastructure
The severe weather caused extensive damage to both public and private property. Thousands of trees were uprooted or snapped, blocking roads and damaging structures. In Loganlea, two residents required evacuation after a storm stripped their roof. Properties on Bribie Island also recorded significant roof loss. Solar panels shattered under the impact of the hail. Hail the size of tennis balls smashed vehicles and windows across Brisbane, Logan, and the Gold Coast. Residents described the hail as “pretty much golf ball sizes — if not softball sizes”.
Streets blocked by downed trees at Coolum on the Sunshine Coast
Emergency Services Respond
The State Emergency Service received over 2,000 calls for help. Teams attended scenes with downed trees, damaged homes, and roads cut by debris. Emergency operations teams prioritised clearing access routes and restoring essential services. Authorities dispatched extra crews from neighbouring regions to speed up recovery. Energex’s Justin Coomber reported that “it’s not solely the powerlines that are affected; there have also been damaged power poles and various equipment issues”.
Brisbanes ‘nuclear’ (thanks @couriermail) hailstorm right now pic.twitter.com/HltQw6Deze
— Aus Integrity (@QBCCIntegrity) November 24, 2025
Schools and Transport Face Disruptions
The fierce storms forced the closure of 11 state schools on Tuesday. Flooding, fallen trees, and ongoing power outages made many campuses inaccessible or unsafe. Train and flight services also suffered delays as crews cleared debris and repaired power infrastructure. Transport authorities warned that some services would resume only once the network stabilised.
Warnings and Future Outlook
The Bureau of Meteorology warned that more severe weather could strike in the coming days. Emergency services urged residents to remain alert and report hazards. The storm cells reportedly brought heavy rainfall, raising localised flooding concerns. Authorities continue to monitor conditions and provide regular updates to the public through official channels.
Severe Weather Update: Severe storms continue in Queensland and New South Wales
Video current: 1pm AEDT 25 November 2025
For the latest forecasts and warnings, go to https://t.co/4W35o8iFmh or the BOM Weather app. pic.twitter.com/MuCPXx8ysE
— Bureau of Meteorology, Australia (@BOM_au) November 25, 2025
Community Accounts and Official Remarks
Residents described scenes of sudden destruction. “There wasn’t even rain beforehand. It just came out with hail,” one local said as they surveyed damage to homes and vehicles. Crews expect that for some areas, full power restoration may take until Wednesday. “For some, it won’t be a quick fix. In the worst-affected areas, power may not be restored until tomorrow evening,” Energex advised.
Storm’s impact on The Bribie Island Caravan Park
Insurance and Recovery Efforts
Insurance assessors and contractors mobilised rapidly to begin inspections. The Insurance Council of Australia declared the event significant for the claims surge now expected. Repair teams prioritised sites with dangerous infrastructure damage. Authorities encouraged those impacted to document damage and contact insurers promptly.
Also Read: ASX Morning Wrap: Tech Drives Gains as Market Opens Strong
Advice for Residents
Authorities advised people in the affected region to steer clear of fallen powerlines and report hazards. Emergency crews urged patience as recovery efforts continued, especially in areas where storms caused widespread destruction. Residents were encouraged to seek help if needed and pay attention to further weather warnings.
Regional Response and Reinforcement
Utilities and local councils resourced recovery staff from other regions. Specialised teams cleared trees, restored power, and helped the traumatised communities clean up debris. Restoration efforts focused on critical infrastructure and hard-hit suburbs in Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Ipswich, the Sunshine Coast, and the Gold Coast.
Conclusion
South-east Queensland faces a significant challenge as the aftermath of the storms unfolds. Residents and businesses brace for further weather events, as recovery efforts continue across the state. Officials thanked all crews and members of the public for their cooperation and support during a period of widespread adversity.
