Queensland's Severe Weather Crisis: New Funding Announced Amidst Lightning Strikes and Storm Damage
Queensland is set to receive additional financial support as it grapples with the aftermath of severe weather, including millions of lightning strikes
. The Australian Prime Minister's recent visit to the Gold Coast highlighted this urgent need.
Prime Minister's Visit and Funding Announcement During his visit to the Gold Coast on Tuesday, the Prime Minister announced an additional $20 million in aid for Southeast Queensland. This announcement came as the full scale of the storm damage was being assessed.
Queensland Premier Reports Extensive Damage Joined by Queensland Premier Steven Miles, the Prime Minister learned of the staggering 3.5 million lightning strikes that struck the region. This extreme weather event resulted in nearly 1000 power lines being downed, requiring extensive repair efforts.
Restoration Efforts Following the Storms The wild weather, which included a tornado hitting the Gold Coast on Christmas Day, left over 130,000 homes without power. Thanks to around 80,000 work hours, power restoration was completed by Sunday, replacing 120km of wires and 150 poles.
Continued Threat of Severe Thunderstorms The Bureau of Meteorology has warned of more severe thunderstorms in Queensland's southeast, highlighting the recent heavy rainfall in Springfield Lakes. Flash flooding and further storm damage are significant concerns.
Ongoing Recovery Efforts and Federal Assistance After seven storm-related deaths, a major recovery effort is underway, which may take years to complete. The Prime Minister has pledged Australian Defence Force assistance and further funding support for the affected areas.
Financial Support for Storm-Hit Queenslanders The latest funding injection comes in addition to a $64 million package announced in December. Federal disaster relief payments have already reached $10.5 million for Southeast Queensland and $4.5 million for the far north.
Mental Health and Insurance Challenges The severe weather has also had a profound impact on mental health, with over 2000 people seeking support. The Federal Treasurer has called on insurers to support affected communities adequately.
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