Thousands of households across south-east Queensland were left in the dark on Monday night after the region endured scorching heat and the aftermath of a damaging storm.
Firefighters battled more than 30 blazes across the area, sending air quality levels plunging to “poor” and “very poor.” By 8pm, around 26,000 homes were still without electricity.
Energex reported that 21,000 customers had already lost power on Monday morning, but the number grew as strong winds and extreme heat caused further damage. Crews worked through the night in an effort to restore supply.
Authorities also condemned reckless behaviour after a video surfaced showing a ute driver attempting to pull down a tree in Kenmore, Brisbane’s west. The tree collapsed onto powerlines, cutting electricity to 85 properties. Energex spokesman Danny Donald described the act as “ridiculous” and “dangerous,” warning the public to stay at least 10 metres away from powerlines and never attempt work near them.
The State Emergency Service received about 950 calls for help following Sunday’s storm, underscoring the widespread impact of the severe weather.
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