Brisbane's big wet

6:48am Natalie Bochenski: Translink reports train services have been suspended between Roma Street and Bowen Hills due to debris on powerlines at Fortitude Valley.

However trains are running from Albion to Roma Street via the Exhibition loop.

6:30am Natalie Bochenski: The torrent caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald is set to continue moving further south today, with rain easing up already on the Sunshine Coast and northern parts of Brisbane, with the southside and Gold Coast to get a reprieve later today.

"The sun might even pop its head out this afternoon," says Brian Dutschke from Weatherzone.

Sadly it won't be for long!

6:10am Natalie Bochenski: Federal Opposition leader Tony Abbott is reportedly heading for Brisbane today.

Mr Abbott was in Sydney yesterday what was described as a "mini" election campaign launch.

He'll spend the rest of the week touring the country, but has apparently bumped Brisbane up on the list.

6:06am Natalie Bochenski: Some early morning stats from the Department of Community Safety:

The SES had 1800 requests for assistance in the 24 hours to 4am. 830 of those were from the Sunshine Coast to Gladstone, with the majority in storm-ravaged Bundaberg. The rest were from Brisbane and the southeast region. The bulk of calls were for help with leaky roofs, sandbagging and downed trees.

There were 54 swift water rescue calls until 9pm Sunday. Between 9pm and 4am, there were a further 9, but in positive news, most were non-events, where the SWR crews were called but not needed.

6:01am Natalie Bochenski: Another big drenching update from the weather bureau, with 449mm of rain recorded at Benobble, just north of Canungra.

Rainfalls between 100 and 150mm have been recorded through the Logan and Albert river catchments, which are experiencing moderate to major flooding. Beaudesert, Maclean Bridge and Wolffdene expected to be most affected during Monday.

5:46am Natalie Bochenski: Springbrook in the Gold Coast hinterland is always soaked in big rain events, and this one is no different - more than 476mm of rain has been recorded over the past 24 hours.

Rainfall totals on the Gold Coast in general have been between 150 to 300mm.

Fast stream rises are expected throughout the region this morning, with major flood levels already reached in Canungra Creek and Mudgeeraba Creek, and minor to moderate flooding possible in the Nerang and Coomera Rivers.

5:38am Natalie Bochenski: The Mary River at Gympie is expected to peak at 21 metres during the morning - that's well above the January 2011 record of 19.45 metres.

The weather bureau says moderate flooding is also expected at Maryborough, with a peak of 10m predicted.

5:15am Natalie Bochenski: Police have just issued an update on a man believed missing in floodwaters at Greenbank.

Witnesses reported the motorcyclist was swept off a bridge along the Greenbank-Goodna Road around 11pm.

It's believed members of the public tried to get a rope to the man, but he was washed downstream. A search will resume this morning.

5:02am Natalie Bochenski: The weather has been so bad in north and west Queensland, Telstra exchanges at Gladstone, Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville, Cairns, Mareeba and Mt Isa are all down.

Police say it's affecting Telstra users' ability to call Triple Zero.

They're advising those affected to use mobile phones to piggyback off an alternative carrier if they need to call emergency services.

Police, fire and ambulance have also established temporary numbers for each locality. They can be found here.

4:49am Natalie Bochenski: The weather bureau has updated its forecast for the Lower Brisbane and Bremer Rivers, as well as Lockyer and Laidley Creeks.

Widespread rainfall totals of 75-150mm have been recorded since 9am Sunday, with isolated totals of up to 350mm. The heaviest rainfall has been recorded in Laidley Creek, Lockyer Valley and Lower Brisbane. Further heavy rainfall is possible during Monday.

The Bremer River at Ipswich is expected to exceed the major flood level of 11.7m by midday.

Minor flooding's expected downstream of Moggill. On the Brisbane city gauge, minor flood levels are expected on the peak of the high tides from Monday morning to Thursday morning. The highest level is expected on the high tides at 11am Tuesday and 11am Wednesday.

4:28am Natalie Bochenski: Energex is reporting almost 157,000 homes and businesses without power this morning.

Here's a rough breakdown:

Approximately 50,000 in Brisbane

30,000 across Logan and the Redlands

33,000 in the Moreton Bay Regional Council area

26,000 on the Sunshine Coast

13,000 across the Gold Coast and Scenic Rim

With the high winds bringing down trees and powerlines like dominos, it's important to stay away from any wires, and report them to 13 19 62. To report power interruptions, call 13 62 62.

3:47am Natalie Bochenski: The weather bureau has just updated its flood warning for the Brisbane and Stanley rivers above Wivenhoe Dam.

Minor to moderate flood levels have peaked in the upper reaches of both rivers. Major flood levels continue in Cressbrook Creek at Rosentreters Bridge, which was 6 metres and rising at 2am. Further rainfall is possible across the Upper Brisbane River catchment during Monday.

3:33am Natalie Bochenski: Early morning greetings to all of you unable/unwilling to sleep during Brisbane's Big Wet, 2013 edition.

I'll be taking over from Simon to run the live blog through the wee hours of January 28.

You know you're in the grip of a serious weather event when the 24-hour Milton McDonald's is closed.

Happily though there's no report of flooding in the restaurant yet.

3:05am Simon Holt: We seem to be on the back of P-platers tonight. Someone has sent us an SMS saying there are two tow inexperienced drivers blocking Emeline St at Kelvin Grove by parking on opposite sides of the street, leaving less than 2m clearance.

2:59am Simon Holt: Police have just issued a caution to those driving around the Redcliffe area this morning. There are plenty of powerlines down due to the wind. Drive carefully, and if you know of someone who's out and about, be sure to let them know there is danger about.

2:39am Simon Holt: Reports just coming in from police of a rescue in a creek at Greenbank. There aren't many details as yet, but we'll let you know as soon as they come to hand.

In other breaking news, a yachtie has been rescued by water police in Waterloo Bay, near King Island off Wellington Point. Police got the distress call just before midnight. Again, there are very few details.

2:35am: A quick update on some road closures. Gap Creek Rd and Eatons Crossing Rd in north Brisbane are closed. On the Gold Coast, Tallegudgera Creek Rd is closed.

2:26am Simon Holt: The Burnett River reached just over 20m in December 2010. It's now at 22.6m with further rises to come. That means it's on target to reach the destructive levels of 1942.

2:23am Simon Holt: This wind just does not want to ease up. The weather bureau and police are warning of winds up to 125km/hr in the Southeast coast district. That essentially means dangerous surf for the Gold Coast.

In other alerts, people around the Lockyer and Laidley Creeks are being urged to evacuate. Evacuation centres are at Fernvale Community Hall and Lowood Showgrounds.

Meanwhile, a tide warning is being issued for Moreton Bay. It's expected to peak at around 10am.

1:49am Simon Holt: There are still plenty of great pictures coming through, so I'll build them into a photo gallery here. And good morning to all those who are sticking with us on this Australia Day holiday as we keep you abreast of all we know about the storms and consequent damage.

1:39am Simon Holt: We've just had a report of a large tree fallen down on a road in Kenmore Hills. Also a report of a P-plater driving 90km/hr in a 50 zone. That's terribly poor form any time, let alone this weather.

1:32am Simon Holt: Energex reports there are still more than 133,000 homes without power in the southeast corner of the state. Their communications unit has shut down until 5.30am. Power, they say, is not likely to be restored until at least tomorrow. For those of us still awake, that would be "today".

1:20am Simon Holt: A tree has fallen on a 4WD at Sunnybay Drive, Birkdale this evening. No one was inside the car. Council officers are securing the site and the tree will be removed in the morning.

Emergency services have determined that it's still too dangerous to work in the dark, with high-speed winds continuing.

1:08am Simon Holt: Chris Constable writes: "I have been following your coverage this evening and thought that the attached photo I took near my home in Fraser's Rd in Mitchelton might be of interest.  The fallen tree which was pretty big missed the Energex Substation by inches."

Thanks Chris.

Storm damage at Mitchelton. Photo: Chris Constable

12:52am Simon Holt: Liz Scott-Branagan sent us this photo, taken on dusk. She says: "Carindale Recreation Reserve, taken from Bedivere Street heading towards Carindale Westfield at 6:58pm."

Flooding at Carindale. Photo: Liz Scott-Branagan

12:43am Simon Holt: Police are investigating the circumstances of the death of a man in his 80s who was on a yacht which broke its moorings in Bundaberg.

The yacht hit other boats before drifting downstream on the Burnett River at about 2.15am.

Police saw the yacht at about 8.30am tangled with other vessels but it again broke free and drifted downstream.  Police were able to reach the yacht around 9am and rescued an elderly woman, also in her 80s, who was taken to Bundaberg Base Hospital.

The man's body was found amid rocks at Burnett Heads around 11.15am.

In a statement, police said initial investigations indicate the man may have fallen overboard. They will prepare a report for the coroner.

12:37am Simon Holt: Thanks to Kate Simmons who sent this picture in of Ithaca Creek spilling over at Bardon. The picture is a little fuzzy, but you get the idea - some pretty frightening waterflow going on there this afternoon.

Flooding at Bardon. Photo: Kate Simmons

12:32am Simon Holt: Some updates from Energex:

• Since midday Saturday more than 40,000 homes and businesses have power restored.
• Currently more than 156,000 are without power across South East Queensland. Crews will be working throughout the night to restore power where it is safe to do so.
• Many areas won’t have power restored until tomorrow due to the dangerous weather conditions.
• If you choose to use a generator, please ensure it is in an open space and well ventilated.
• More than 1000 fallen powerline reports have been received.
• Phone 13 19 62 to report fallen lines. Any fallen powerline could still be live so please keep well away and keep others away.

12:21am Simon Holt: This picture was sent to us by Stuart Brown from the Gold Coast.

If you've got any photos or other information to send in, email them to scoop@brisbanetimes.com.au

Gold Coast flooding. Photo: Stuart Brown

12:05am Simon Holt: According to this picture sent in by a reader who wants to remain anonymous, the wind was so strong at New Farm today, it blew the windows right out of an apartment building. They can be seen lying on the ground.

Windows blown off an apartment in New Farm. Photo: Supplied

11:56pm: Brisbane Times reporter Amy Remeikis sent in this picture from Alex Heads on the Sunshine Coast this afternoon. It's ocean foam on Alexandra Parade, which for those unfamiliar with the area, is about 50m from the ocean.

11:42pm Simon Holt: Spare a thought for the garbage collectors at Redland City. While most events around the region are being cancelled, these good folk are being given no reprieve. Collections go ahead as normal tomorrow.

Campers at Straddie have no such luck. They've been told to pack their tents and have been moved to an evacuation centre.

11:30pm Marissa Calligeros: The windows and doors are rattling atop Brisbane Avenue in Camp Hill as the winds pick up tonight. Pot plants are being upturned, and leaves shredded from trees.

11:23pm Simon Holt: Redland City Council has taken about 100 calls and removed fallen trees from blocked roads tonight.

Mayor Karen Williams says high tides and dangerous conditions are continuing and surf beaches are likely to remain closed tomorrow.

There are 7300 homes in Redland without power, at Coochiemudlo, Lamb, Karragarra, Russell and Macleay Islands as well as Alexandra Hills, Capalaba, Cleveland, Redland Bay, Ormiston, Wellington Point, Mount Cotton, Thorneside, Sheldon, Thornlands and Birkdale. Most will be fixed tomorrow morning.

Roof tarping will also begin tomorrow. Sand bags are available tonight at South St, Cleveland but won't be available from SES headquarters.

Victoria Point Pontoon is secure, but road closures include: Pitt Road at Wellington Point, Avalon Road at Sheldon and the Sturgeon Street walkway at Ormiston.

11:16pm Simon Holt: In more breaking news, police are trying to verify reports of a man being swept down Kedron Brook this afternoon.

Police say a witness claims to have seen a man with dark hair being swept away near Dawson Parade and Arana Hills around 4.40pm.

Searches haven't yet found anyone, and nobody has been reported missing.

11:03pm Simon Holt: People are being rescued from homes along Newmarket Rd, Newmarket. Floodwaters have been rising steadily through the afternoon and have reached more than waist height in low-lying areas.

10:58pm Simon Holt: We're told by a reader that Butterfield St, Herston, is completely cut. There are no barriers, so be careful.

Butterfield St Herston is cut.

10:48pm Simon Holt: Some good news from the weather bureau. Rain is easing on the Sunshine Coast and in the northern suburbs of Brisbane. The bad news is that it's intensifying at the Gold Coast.

Flash flooding continues.

10:44pm Simon Holt: Somebody who hasn't identified themself has sent us an SMS. They say police are diverting traffic on Lutwyche Rd near the intersection with Butterfield St just past RBH.

The same person says: "Lutwyche Rd is cut completely just past the RBH. Hungry Jacks had gone under - oh the humanity!"

Flooding in Carseldine. Photo: Amy Scott-Branagan

10:27pm Simon Holt: This is one of the more creative photos we've received, from the comfort of the front seat. Not taken by the driver, we hope.

10:20pm Simon Holt: Here's the latest list of road closures from Ipswich City Council. These were current at 7.30pm:

Road Closures

• Grandchester-Mt Mort Road (near School Road)
• Rosewood-Laidley Road @ Long Gully Road
• George Street, Grandchester
• Gordon Street, Grandchester
• Reinke Road, Ashwell
• Junction Road, Karalee
• Rosewood-Warrill View Road, Rosewood (at the corner of School Street)
• Duncan Street, Collingwood Park (@ Namatjira Drive)
• Boyles Road, Pine Mountain
• Redbank Plains Road (Six Mile Creek)
• Jones Road (Happy Jack Gully)
• Tallegalla Road @ Voights Road
• Tallegalla Road @ Hauschildt Road
• Oakview Court, Brookwater

 Water Over Road

• Calvert Station Road, Calvert
• Rosewood-Laidley Road @ Bunnies Road
• Albert Street Goodna
• Smiths Street Goodna
• 78 Simmons Road, North Ipswich
• Berry Street, Yamanto

10:13pm Simon Holt: RSL Care has just issued a statement which says people in its Fairways Retirement Community at Bundaberg; Baycrest Retirement Community in Hervey Bay; and Chelsea Retirement Community in Maryborough, are safe and well.

Non-essential community care services in flood-affected areas have been cancelled. Family members trying to contact RSL Care for updates about their loved ones can call 1300 RSL Care (1300 775 227).

10:07pm Simon Holt: Here's a photo taken from this afternoon at Rocklea, which clearly shows waters on the rise in one of Brisbane's flooding hot spots.

Flooding at Rocklea.

9:59pm Simon Holt: It seems Fortitude Valley might not be the hot spot it was last night. Rain wasn't keeping people away as they lined up to get into nightclubs at around 11pm. Not so tonight, as this picture from Shaun Garret shows waters starting to rise.

Flooding at Fortitude Valley. Photo: Shaun Garret

9:52pm Simon Holt: Thank you to those who are getting in touch. Kate at Kenmore says if she wasn't keeping in touch with friends and family, she wouldn't know how bad it was out there. Just blowy winds and a bit of rain where she is.

Another reader has sent via phone reports of continuing high winds around Roma St. And plenty of pictures coming through which will go up soon.

9:47pm Simon Holt: Loyal reader Greg was just wandering up to the local shop and saw a tree fall on the corner of Water St and Boundary St at Spring Hill. Thankfully, he says, it fell on the footpath, not the road. While the picture is fairly dark, you can clearly see the size of the uprooted tree.

A tree falls on the corner of Water St and Boundary St, Spring Hill. Photo: Greg R

9:39pm Simon Holt: Word is that there might be some confusion about the predicted flood peaks. Some reports say tomorrow night, others say Tuesday night.

Both are indeed correct. Due to the tides, there will be two peaks on consecutive nights.

9:31pm: There are still reports of heavy winds around the city.

Cameron Atfield says if you can avoid driving tonight, do so. Otherwise, be very careful on the roads. "I was lucky there was no other traffic on the Story Bridge, as a sudden gust of wind was enough to push me into the neighbouring lane," he says.

9:01pm Simon Holt: There are some horrific scenes at Enid St, Goodna, tonight. People who lost their homes two years ago are hearing of more flooding coming their way tomorrow night.

Cr Paul Tully, who also lost his home, says pepole are bringing in cars, trucks and utes in an effort to move valuable possessions to higher ground. Some of these people returned to their homes as recently as three months ago.

"You can tell people not to panic," Cr Tully says. "But when they see the Premier on TV, and flood maps being released, of course they're going to panic."

People panicking to get their possessions out of Enid St, Goodna. Photo: Paul Tully

8:46pm Simon Holt: Ipswich councillor Paul Tully tells us hundreds of Goodna residents who were flooded in 2011 are evacuating their homes before a predicted 11m flood hits the suburb tomorrow night.

Goodna was the worst-affected suburb in southeast Queensland with 600 homes and businesses flooded in 2011. In the lowest-lying street in Goodna, Enid St, a panic evacuation is occurring.

Cr Tully lost his home in the floods two years ago. Although flood levels are expected to be 5m lower, they are still believed to be extremely distressed.

8:35pm Simon Holt: In latest road closures, Youngs Crossing Road at Petrie/Joyner is closed due to release of water from North Pine Dam. The D’Aguilar Highway is closed at Kilcoy Creek, Kilcoy and at the Stanley River, Woodford. And the Redcliffe Jetty remains closed.

8:30pm Simon Holt: We don't need much incentive to stay indoors on days like these. But if damage like this is any indication of what's happening around the city right now, the message is just driven home harder.

A tree snaps at Toowong. Photo: Werner Van Huffel

8:18pm Bridie Jabour: The Department of Community Safety has issued an emergency alert for the tide expected in the Moreton Bay coastal areas tomorrow. A storm tide is expected at 10.35am tomorrow and will be 0.2 metres higher than today's.

Car flooded at Clayfield. Photo: Leanne Denby

8:13pm Simon Holt: Here's another picture from around Clayfield, sent to us by Leanne Denby:

8:06pm Simon Holt: Good evening. The sangers are made, snacks packed and fingers at the ready to bring you all the latest wild weather information, 24 hours. We'll be tuned in to flooding, weather reports from all of southeast Queensland, and safety information throughout the wee hours, so stick with us!

Shortly, we'll be publishing maps from Brisbane City Council which show areas likely to be flooded between now and Tuesday.

In the meantime, we'd like to hear any experiences you've had with floods and insurance. Let us know via scoop@brisbanetimes.com.au. And continue sending through photos you might have so we can share them with others.

8:01pm Bridie Jabour: There are reports on the Gold Coast of windows in high rises exploding because of strong winds. Winds are expected to reach about 125 kilometres per hour and residents are advised to duct tape crosses in the middle of their windows to reinforce them.

7:40pm Marissa Calligeros: More than 100,000 homes and businesses are now without power across southeast Queensland. There are more than 820 fallen powerlines across the region.

Areas affected include:

• Brisbane: 19,000 homes and businesses
• Sunshine Coast: 26,500
• Gold Coast: 2900
• Gympie: 3500
• Ipswich: 900
• Logan: 12,500
• Moreton Bay: 17,000
• Redlands: 4300
• Scenic Rim: 4900
• Somerset: 150

Enoggera Creek (corner of Payne and School roads), The Gap. Photo: Madolline Gourley

7:35pm Cameron Atfield: Thanks for all your photographs today.

Here's an image from Enoggera Creek at The Gap, sent in by reader Madolline Gourley.

Keep them coming. We can only be in so many places, so it's great that you can share your experiences with our readers as well.

Email them through to scoop@brisbanetimes.com.au.

7:27pm Cameron Atfield: Folks heading to Brisbane Airport may be going overseas in more ways than one!

Reader Leanne Denby sent us in this photograph, taken at Toombul.

The AirTrain, near the Toombul shopping centre. Photo: Leanne Denby

7:20pm Cameron Atfield: Brisbane City Council has released its updated flood maps.

They can be downloaded here.

6:59pm Bridie Jabour: The waters will peak on Monday in Ipswich and Moggill and Tuesday night in Brisbane, where another peak is expected on Wednesday afternoon.

"The time to act is now, the times to prepare is now," Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said.

He is urging people to look at the maps which will be published on news sites and the Brisbane City Council site.

Cr Quirk said the flooding will not be caused by dam releases but by the amount of rain which has fallen in the west and is flowing down to Brisbane.

"Please don't sit back and say 'she'll be right', have a look and do pre-planning," he said.

6:59pm: It's been pretty blowy in the CBD and Spring Hill today.

Reader Maycon Costa sent in this photograph from the corner of Astor Terrace and Upper Edward Street.

If you have some photos to share, send them through to scoop@brisbanetimes.com.au.

A tree was uprooted at the corner of Astor Terrace and Upper Edward Street in the city. Photo: Maycon Costa

6:56pm Cameron Atfield: We're getting more photographs sent in from our readers.

Here's Norman Creek at Greenslopes, taken by Kate Nixon.

Norman Creek at Greenslopes. Photo: Kate Nixon

6:47pm Natalie Bochenski: The 7pm performance of The Illusionists at QPAC has been cancelled due to the weather.

QPAC says it will contact affected patrons ASAP.

6:34pm Cameron Atfield: Just to recap, there's minor flooding expected in the Brisbane and Bremer rivers, but Queensland premier Campbell Newman says it will be nothing like what happened in 2011.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk says, if current projections play out, 3600 residential properties will be affected in Brisbane.

6:27pm Bridie Jabour: "For those charged with safety and security of community we will always be conservative," Police Commissioner Ian Stewart said.

Mr Stewart said he would rather cause people an inconvenience by making them move for a few days than have anyone hurt.

6:24pm Cameron Atfield: ALERT

This from the Department of Community Safety:

A flooding emergency alert has been issued for the Laidley area.

The Lockyer Valley Regional Council advises Laidley Creek is expected to peak at 5.30pm with major flooding to 2011 levels in town.

People have been advised to warn others and self evacuate to Laidley High School.

6:23pm Bridie Jabour: Bureau of Meterology forecaster Rob Webb said there is still a possibility of tornadoes and most of the rain which is going to cause the flooding has not even fallen yet.

"It's just a prediction," he said of the flooding.

"...we feel the Brisbane River will flood and it's appropriate people take precautions."

He said the predictons of the 200 to 300 millimetres which were going to fall on Brisbane and the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast have actually fallen further west in the Wivenhoe catchment which is why their flooding prediction has changed.

6:18pm Bridie Jabour: Premier Campbell Newman is saying just because modelling shows a "dwelling" will be affected by floodwaters it does not mean it will be inundated, it could just mean there will be water on the land.

"We are not going to see anything like 2011," he said.

His core message is that people should not panic but they should be prepared and there is not going to be a repeat of the floods two years ago.

6:18pm Marissa Calligeros: Rescuers are still trying to reach three families stuck on the roofs of their homes near Gympie.

Mayor Ron Dyne says the families at Widgee, between Gympie and Murgon, have been stranded for more than seven hours, but all attempts by SES flood boats to reach them have failed.

‘‘We haven’t been able to get choppers in either because of the high winds,’’ he said.

‘‘I’m not sure how many people are involved, but there are three families waiting to be rescued from their roofs."

Another attempt will be made to reach the families as soon as possible.

AAP

6:14pm Bridie Jabour: Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said creek flooding is also a very significant and immediate possibility.

"It's a double whammy this time compared to say, 2011," he said referring to the creeks rising as well as the Brisbane River.

However, he again emphasised about 3500 residences will be impacted compared to more than 12,000 in 2011.

"It's worse than what we thought at lunchtime," Cr Quirk said.

6:10pm Bridie Jabour: Premier Campbell Newman is emphasising the flood levels are going to be a lot lower than in 2011.

For example, the Brisbane peak was 4.46m in 2011 and this time it is expected to be 2.6 metres.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said there had been changes to predicitons this afternoon and the latest modelling showed about 3600 "dwellings" are going to be impacted, meaning they could flood.

About 1250 businesses might be flooded.

6:08pm Marissa Calligeros: One dead, three missing as flood crisis unfolds:

The elderly man found dead in Bundaberg was tending to his yacht when he fell overboard and was swept away.

The 81-year-old man pulled from the water at tornado-hit Burnett Heads on Sunday afternoon.

Police Commissioner Ian Stewart confirmed the state’s first flood death on Sunday afternoon, but there are grave fears for a young man and woman missing in floodwaters, as well as a fisherman.

The young woman last seen driving into floodwaters at Pacific Haven near Hervey Bay on Sunday.

A 27-year-old man was swept away when he and two companions drove into flood waters at Widgee Creek near Gympie on Sunday morning. His two companions were rescued.

And a fisherman has been missing off Port Alma near Rockhampton since Thursday night.

6:08pm Bridie Jabour: Flood maps are going to be released this afternoon and Mr Newman is warning people not to panic.

The peak will be expected around midnight tomorrow night but he called the flooding of the Brisbane River "mild".

6:08pm Bridie Jabour: Premier Campbell Newman and Lord Mayor Graham Quirk have begun their press conference and Mr Newman said there have been rumours of another rain belt coming, but it is not true.

"There will be flooding but the flooding is much, much lower than in 2011," he said.

He said there was major flooding in Lockyer Valley and police are helping with evacuations.

"People who were impacted in 2011 will be contacted by police and emergency officers," he said.

5:42pm Cameron Atfield: Premier Campbell Newman and Lord Mayor Graham Quirk are due to brief media on weather conditions at 5pm.

We'll have more when it happens.

5:29pm Marissa Calligeros: Another flood photo from the ABC's Brad Marsellos in Bundaberg ...

Just lost her home. Still loves Australia. What a champion. #Bundaberg twitter.com/mackiemarsello…

— Mackie Fantastic (@mackiemarsellos) January 27, 2013

5:29pm Cameron Atfield: CityCat services have been suspended, according to Deputy Mayor Adrian Schrinner:

Just been advised that all CityCat and Ferry services on the Brisbane River have been suspended. #bigwet

— Adrian Schrinner (@Schrinner) January 27, 2013

5:23pm Cameron Atfield: Lockyer Valley Mayor Steve Jones has spoken to Fairfax Radio 4BC from Grantham, where there's a lot of water "but nothing like the 2011 floods".

"We've got a nine-metre rise in the creek down at Mulgowrie and we would expect there'll be some flooding probably this afternoon or tonight, so we are preparing for that with businesses sandbagging and the like," he said.

"We've obviously got a lot of water around, it is very wet; it's not the circumstances we had in 2011, but we need to very cautious and make sure we handle it well."

Cr Jones told Peter Psaltis an evacuation centre had been set up at Laidley.

"Since the events of the last floods, we encourage people to do things as soon as possible, to do them when it's safe, so that's the way we're going," he said.

And the mayor said the community was responding well to its latest challenge.

"Everyone's working hard and I think we should be able to keep things under control."

5:22pm Marissa Calligeros: Here's the latest on the road conditions in Brisbane:

Albion: Sandgate Road
Road closed both directions.

Ascot: Nudgee Road, between the ICB and Collingwood St
Debris and vegetation on the road. Short delays expected. Proceed with caution.

Bardon: Bowman Parade
Flash flooding. Road closed in both directions. Diversions are in place.

Bellbowrie: Moggill Road
One lane closed. Proceed with caution.

Brookfield: Boscombe Road
Road closed both directions.

Carseldine: Gympie Arterial Road
Water over northbound lanes after Beams Road. Two lanes blocked. Proceed with caution.

Chuwar: Mount Crosby Road/Colleges Crossing
Colleges Crossing closed due to dam release. Road closed both directions.

Coorparoo: Cavendish Road
There is road surface damage on Cavendish Road between Milsom Street and Stanley Street East. Curb side lanes in both directions are closed to traffic. Proceed with caution.

Helidon: Warrego Highway
There are numerous pot holes eastbound between Helidon and Gatton. Proceed with caution.

Holland Park West: Messines Ridge Road, southbound on ramp to Pacific Motorway
Debris and vegetation blocking one lane. Proceed with caution.Kenmore Hills: Gap Creek Road
Road closed both directions.

Kholo: Kholo Road
The Kholo Road Bridge is closed due to flooding.

Mitchelton: Osborne Road
Debris and vegetation on the road. Short delays expected. Proceed with caution.

Pullenvale: Lancing Street
Road closed both directions.

Pullenvale: Grandview Road
Closed due to flooding near Pullenvale Primary School.

South Brisbane: Tribune Street
Closed between Merivale Street and Colchester Street.

Udgee Beach: Nudgee Road
Road closed both directions.

Wynnum: Wynnum Road
One lane closed inbound at Kianawah Road. Traffic control on scene.

Woolloongabba: Deshon Street
Road closed both directions due to flooding.

5:11pm Marissa Calligeros: Tornado damage: The ABC's Brad Marsellos (@mackiemarsellos) snapped this picture at Bargara just yesterday ...

Trampoline stuck in the top of power pole. Unbelievable #Bargara #bigwet twitter.com/mackiemarsello…

— Mackie Fantastic (@mackiemarsellos) January 26, 2013

5:09pm Cameron Atfield: Our federal political leaders have tweeted their support for Queenslanders.

First, Prime Minister Julia Gillard:

Please listen to local warnings, keep updated on developments and take care. JG

— Julia Gillard (@JuliaGillard) January 27, 2013

Followed, 25 minutes later, by Opposition Leader Tony Abbott.

My thoughts go out to everyone battling floods in QLD. The emergency services doing everything to keep people safe have our full support.

— Tony Abbott (@TonyAbbottMHR) January 27, 2013

If these grey clouds have any silver lining, it's the opportunity for a bit of bipartisanship in Canberra!

5:07pm Marissa Calligeros: Damage on the Bruce Highway near Gin Gin from a brisbanetimes.com.au reader via Twitter:

#bigwet incredible photos of damage near Gin Gin on the Bruce Highway @brisbanetimes #qldweather twitter.com/oliviamaragna/…

— Olivia Maragna (@oliviamaragna) January 27, 2013

5:04pm Marissa Calligeros: Another flooded road in Brisbane:

Many roads in #Brisbane flooded over and impassable. #bigwet #Oswald #idontliketornados twitter.com/StMarysInExile…

— St Mary's In Exile (@StMarysInExile) January 27, 2013

5:03pm Cameron Atfield: Northside councillor Victoria Newton reports the major intersection of Sandgate and Roghan roads is under water.

Sandgate Rd & Roghan Rd intersection under water. Police on hand. Please avoid. #bigwet

— Cr Victoria Newton (@VictoriaNewton) January 27, 2013

4:58pm Marissa Calligeros: More blackouts: There are now 81,000 homes and businesses without power in Ipswich, Moreton Bay, Logan, parts of the Gold Coast and Brisbane. For more information go to energex.com.au.

4:58pm Cameron Atfield: Another photograph from Steve Ketley, this one from the Brighton Esplanade.

If you have some photos you'd like to share, send them in to us on scoop@brisbanetimes.com.au.

Brighton Esplanade. Photo: Steve Ketley

4:56pm Bridie Jabour: Uninsured families in Gladstone, Bundaberg and Banana Shire Council might be able to claim up to $14,685 in grants from the government for damage done by ex-tropical cyclone Oswald.

Communities Minister Tracy Davis announced this afternoon personal hardship grants are available for up to $180 per person and up to $900 for families while people who have uninsured households can access grants which will pay for damages and repairs.

4:56pm Marissa Calligeros: Here's some words of encouragement from the Twittersphere:

Floods are here again. Hold on fellow Aussies....we did this in 2011, we can do it again! Stay safe everyone! #flood #australia #bigwet

— Tori Taylor (@ireallycbf) January 27, 2013

4:56pm Cameron Atfield: Reader Steve Ketley has sent in a couple of great photos of today's Big Wet.

Here's a cityscape he took to the city's north.

Brisbane under the remnants of Cyclone Oswald. Photo: Steve Ketley

4:54pm Marissa Calligeros: Trees are coming down across Brisbane, blocking roads. Here's a photo of debris across the road on Mt Coot-tha ...

Tree down and across both lanes, summit side of Mt Coot-tha.Be careful!#bigwet twitter.com/kblooch/status…

— Kylie Blucher (@kblooch) January 27, 2013

4:41pm Cameron Atfield: The Story Bridge has reopened after a police incident closed it down for several hours.

A police spokeswoman said there were no injuries and traffic was again flowing in both directions.

4:38pm Marissa Calligeros: Just another reminder:

PLEASE don't dial Triple Zero for road updates. Our Comms staff need the lines free for emergencies. 13 19 40 for road info. #bigwet

— QPS Media Unit (@QPSmedia) January 26, 2013

4:33pm Marissa Calligeros: A total of 62 campers are being evacuated from beaches on North Stradbroke Island.

With ferry services cancelled Redland City Mayor Karen Williams says an evacuation centre has been established at Point Lookout Community Hall.

4:20pm Cameron Atfield: It's not as if you'd be out cycling in this weather anyway, but here's some more disincentive for you.

Karl Sikora sent through this photo of the bike path down at Kedron Brook.

Flooding at Kedron Brook. Photo: Karl Sikora

4:12pm Cameron Atfield: We've been advised Keith Urban’s concert scheduled for tonight at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre has been postponed until tomorrow.
 
Promoter Michael Chugg said the decision was made after discussions with the weather bureau and advice conditions worsen this afternoon.
 
"Keith’s priority is his fans and we want everyone to be safe," Chugg said.
 
"Whilst we held hope that we could proceed this evening as planned, the weather circumstances have trumped our best intentions."
 
All tickets for tonight’s concert remain valid for tomorrow.

4:02pm Marissa Calligeros: There are now 78,000 homes and businesses without power in Ipswich, Moreton Bay, Logan, parts of the Gold Coast and Brisbane. For more information go to energex.com.au.

4:01pm Marissa Calligeros: More road closures in Brisbane:

Albion: Sandgate Road
Water over the road. Road closed both directions.

Ascot: Nudgee Road, between the ICB and Collingwood St
Debris and vegetation on the road. Short delays expected. Proceed with caution. 

Holland Park West: Messines Ridge Road, southbound on ramp to Pacific Motorway
Debris and vegetation blocking one lane. Proceed with caution. 

Udgee Beach: Nudgee Road
Road closed both directions.

Carseldine: Gympie Arterial Road
Water over northbound lanes after Beams Road. Two lanes blocked. Proceed with caution.

4:01pm Cameron Atfield: RACQ Capricorn Helicopter Rescue and Seven News have sent us some spectacular images from their winch rescue near Biloela this morning. Click through this photo gallery to see how it all unfolded.

Two women managed to climb into the tray of the ute with a 14-month-old child, as fast-flowing water surrounded the vehicle on the Dawson Highway.

The chopper battled strong winds and rain to reach the stranded trio, but upon arrival the crew discovered they didn't have a sling small enough to winch the child to safety.  So the rescue crew lowered a dive bag down, placed the baby inside and winched the child on board.

It's another timely reminder to be careful where you drive. If it's flooded, forget it.

Click for more photos

Biloela rescue

Helicopter hoist rescue near Biloela.

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3:54pm Marissa Calligeros: Public transport services are still operating in southeast Queensland. However, trains between Caboolture and Nambour have been suspended and replaced by buses.

Replacement buses will not operate after dark. The final services will be:
- The Nambour-Roma Street service departing Nambour at 5.43pm, and
- The Roma Street-Nambour service (usually Gympie North) departing Roma Street at 5.03pm.

Buses will resume tomorrow morning and are expected to run until at least midday tomorrow (Monday, Janaury 28).

3:42pm Marissa Calligeros: An elderly woman has been winched to safety are she was found clinging to a log in rising flood waters at Pacific Haven, east of Childers.

The woman and her husband were originally in a tinny when it flipped.

The couple clung to its upturned hull for some time before losing hold of the small vessel.

The crew of the AGL Action Rescue Helicopter found the pair clinging to a log in fast-flowing chest deep water.  

Rescue Crewman Rick Harvey was lowered into the floodwaters where he secured the woman to a sling before she was winched up to the helicopter.

"She couldn't swim so that was a real concern," Mr Harvey said.

"Her husband was able to wade back to the bank and chose to go back to their home," he said.

The AGL helicopter has now been tasked to Agnes Water where more people are needing to be winched to safety.

3:32pm Bridie Jabour: Premier Campbell Newman says Queensland could potentially ask Victoria and NSW for help in the recovery after this disaster.

He will be announcing details of a flood appeal "soon".

3:32pm Bridie Jabour: The Bureau of Meteorology says the right conditions for tornado development have moved towards Brisbane.

"Tornadoes aren't unheard of...but to have so many in one area is unusual," a forecaster told reporter.

The forecaster said there is nothing in his modelling to suggest that there will be flooding as bad as 2011.

The BOM forecaster calls the trip of ex-tropical cyclone Oswald "remarkable" and says there are "certainly" risks of tornadoes in Brisbane this afternoon.

He said the storms carrying the tornadoes are moving at 100km/h and tornadoes can e very difficult to pick up on radars.

3:25pm Bridie Jabour: A BOM senior forecaster said the bureau is doing modelling figures on the Brisbane River and will release this afternoon the sites most at risk of flooding.

He said after this rain clears no more rain is expected for more than a week and calls it "good news".

Emergency Services Minister Jack Dempsey says he has swift water rescue crews going to "unnecessary" jobs where people have been skylarking in floodwater.

He and Premier Campbell Newman are encouraging people to stay inside with a book or DVD.

3:24pm Bridie Jabour: The Premier and the Prime Minister have been in touch over the past 36 hours.

Campbell Newman said he has been texting Julia Gillard overnight to let her know how it's going in Queensland.

Ms Gillard first rang Mr Newman a couple of days ago to offer her support.

3:20pm Bridie Jabour: Mr Newman said an announcement will be made tomorrow about whether children will be sent back to school.

He warns against swimming and driving though flood waters and says the only direction given to Seqwater is that water supply is not an issue and the government is happy to keep Wivenhoe Dam levels at 88 per cent.

Premier Campbell Newman addresses media about the flood situation.

3:20pm Marissa Calligeros: The body of an elderly man is being recovered from floodwaters in Burnett Heads at Bundaberg, the Police Commissioner Ian Stewart has said.

He has not revealed further information.

3:16pm Bridie Jabour: Premier Campbell Newman said two Air Force helicopters have been tasked to Bundaberg to help with the disaster.

"It's sad to say the people of Bundaberg are now preparing for worse flooding than in 2010/11," Mr Newman said.

He has been in Bundaberg this morning touring the damaged areas.

Mr Newman said there will be wind speeds of up to 130km/h in southeast Queensland as rain continues to pour.

He says there are evacuations happening in Bundaberg because of flooding.

The Premier praised Lord Mayor Graham Quirk for being active with messages and the system should move on my midday tomorrow.

High tides in Moreton Bay are of concern and could cause backing up if creeks.

"Again I stress there is a very great threat across the state from creeks," he said.

3:14pm Marissa Calligeros: The centre of ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald is located approximately 45km north northwest of Miles and 75km south- southeast of Taroom.

The system is moving south southeast at about 30 km/h and is expected to contract into New South Wales on Monday.

Destructive wind gusts in excess of 125 km/h and further tornadoes are likely, the weather bureau says.

Wind gust of 122km/h were recorded at Double Island Point at 10:45am on Sunday.

Current radar imagery shows an intense band of activity on the Sunshine Coast, mostly between Tewantin and Caloundra, moving southward.

Up to 100mm of rain could fall over the Sunshine Coast within the next six hours.

Currently, the heaviest rain is falling over the Sunshine Coast hinterland and near Queensland's southern border.

Cooran has recorded 136mm and Borumba Dam 113mm since 9am.

Parts of the Wide Bay and Burnett district have received between 300-400mm of rain in the past 24 hours.

The Walla Range, about 230km northwest of Brisbane, recorded 480mm. 

2:39pm Cameron Atfield: Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale has warned his residents to expect another 200 millimetres of rain in the lower Brisbane and Bremer River catchments.

‘‘The jetstream influence causing ‘mini tornadoes’ is largely confined to the coast and not expected to have an influence in Ipswich,’’ he said.

‘‘The final Bremer River height is still being resolved by [the Bureau of Meteorology], however it is anticipated that all river and creek flows will be contained within the high banks of each watercourse.

‘‘It is recommended that anyone in known low lying areas remain vigilant, but no evacuations are necessary at this stage.’’

2:30pm Natalie Bochenski: The Queensland Performing Arts Complex is open, with South Pacific and The Illusionists still set to go on as scheduled. However, QPAC is advising attendees take extra time to get to the venue. If the weather prevents you from attending, call QTIX on 136 246 and staff will be able to assist.

Keith Urban is due to perform at 7.30pm at the Boondall Entertainment Centre as scheduled.  Attendees are advised to allow extra time to get to the venue, whether by public transport or driving. 

Toombul Centro Shopping Centre is open as normal. Schultz Canal is being monitored for flooding every half hour, but the centre reports no flooding in its low-lying carparks as yet.

The Brisbane Arts Theatre has cancelled its 6.30pm performance of Casablanca – A Radio Play, due to a small amount of water damage.

A reader sent in this photo of a tree down over Boundary Street, West End. Photo: Supplied

2:28pm Cameron Atfield: Here's another photo of the tree down at Boundary Street, West End.

2:26pm Marissa Calligeros: There are now more than 48,000 homes and businesses without power in Ipswich, Moreton Bay, Logan, parts of the Gold Coast hinterland and Brisbane. The worst affected regions are in and around Gympie and the Sunshine Coast.

Number of homes without power:

Sunshine Coast: 23,083 
Brisbane: 10,295
Gold Coast: 26
Gympie: 4394
Ipswich: 940
Logan: 3656
Moreton Bay: 7931
Redlands: 1427
Scenic Rim: 565

2:26pm Cameron Atfield: A tree has fallen over at West End, blocking the popular Boundary Road business strip.

Thanks to the (unnamed) reader who sent this photo through. Email pics to scoop@brisbanetimes.com.au.

A tree has fallen over Boundary Street at West End. Photo: Supplied

2:13pm Marissa Calligeros: Residents of the Lutwyche house damaged by a fallen tree have escaped unhurt. 

Firefighters are en route to the scene to clear the debris.

A police spokesman said  the occupants of the Lutwyche Road house were in a back room when the tree fell about 12.50pm.

"There's minor damage to the house," the spokesman said.

"But no one has been injured."

2:08pm Marissa Calligeros: There are unconfirmed reports a tree has fallen on a house in Lutwyche in Brisbane's inner-north trapping four people inside. We'll bring you more on this as information comes to hand.

2:06pm Bridie Jabour: A tree has come down on Sandgate Road in Nundah due to the strong wind in the area.

A police car is parked in front of it to warn motorists until it is cleared away

A tree falls on Sandgate Road, Nundah. Photo: Michelle Smith

2:00pm Cameron Atfield: Cape Moreton is copping a battering, according to the latest Bureau of Meteorology observations.

The cape, exposed on the northern end of Moreton Island, has recorded wind gusts of up to 111 km/h.

1:53pm Marissa Calligeros: Premier Campbell Newman is on his way back to Brisbane for a meeting with Emergency Management Queensland, after touring tornado-hit central Queensland this morning.

1:51pm Cameron Atfield: I just ventured out of our dry, warm inner-city newsroom to get a first-hand taste of this weather.

The wind has certainly picked up since I arrived here this morning and the howling sound of the wind between the CBD's buildings is nothing short of eerie.

1:49pm Marissa Calligeros: Residents of north Bundaberg are being ordered to leave their homes immediately.

The suburb is expected to experience widespread flooding from this afternoon, and residents have been told they have limited time to get out.

Up to 300 homes in north Bundaberg are expected go under, and those that don’t will be isolated.

A disaster has been declared giving authorities the power to force evacuations, if necessary.

Evacuation centres have been set up.

1:37pm Cameron Atfield: If you're in Bundaberg North, the time to leave is NOW.

Bundaberg North residents please evacuate immediately to Civic Centre, N Bundaberg SS or friends & relatives #bigwet

— QPS Media Unit (@QPSmedia) January 27, 2013

1:36pm Cameron Atfield: We've got an update on the Story Bridge closure as police deal with an incident on the bridge.

Shafston Avenue traffic is being be diverted onto Main Street and down River Terrace. Traffic currently on Main Street will be diverted off and down River Terrace.

1:30pm Cameron Atfield: The tornadoes reported near Bundaberg launched a bit of debate about weather terminology.

Freya Petersen looked into it and, yes, we do have tornadoes in this country.

1:24pm Marissa Calligeros: There are reportedly blue skies in Gladstone CBD now, but residents are closely watching the Awoonga Dam wall.

More than eight metres of water was going over the dam wall earlier today.

1:22pm Marissa Calligeros: There are now more than 41,000 without power in Ipswich, Logan and Brisbane’s western, northern and bayside suburbs.

The worst affected regions are in and around Gympie and Sunshine Coast. For more information go to energex.com.au.

1:22pm Simon O'Brien: Water is raging through a creek next to the Toowoomba Public Library in the city's CBD.

It's the same creek that broke its banks in 2011, causing fatal flooding.

Flooding in Toowoomba.

1:16pm Cameron Atfield: Story Bridge closed due to police incident:

Traffic's banked up on the Story Bridge, after a "police incident". All lanes are closed and traffic is being diverted along River Terrace and Main Street.

Police are advising people to avoid the area.

Special thanks to the (very elevated) reader, who did not provide his/her name, who sent us this pic.

Traffic at a standstill on the Story Bridge. Photo: Supplied

1:13pm Marissa Calligeros: Dramatic rescue:

Two women and a 14-month-old baby have been rescued in dramatic scenes at Biloela, west of Gladstone, after their ute was swamped by floodwaters, Seven News reports.

The women managed to climb into the tray of the ute with the child, as fast-flowing water surrounded the vehicle on the Dawson Highway.

A rescue helicopter battled strong winds and rain to reach the stranded trio, but upon arrival the crew discovered they didn't have a sling small enough to winch the child to safety.

But they did have a dive bag on board. The rescue crew lowered the bag down, placed the baby inside and winched the child on board.

The women and the baby were extremely distressed and hugged and kissed their rescuers once they reached dry land.

1:09pm Amy Remeikis: Seems most people have had the same idea – it's almost impossible to get an underground car park at Westfield Chermside.

The movies are packed. Above ground car parks are in plentiful supply, though.

Westfield Chermside is popular on this wet day. Photo: Amy Remeikis

1:07pm Marissa Calligeros: The Lighthouse Restaurant at Cleveland is reportedly being flooded, as the tide rises rapidly.

1:04pm Cameron Atfield: We've just got word the Insurance Council of Australia has declared a catastrophe for large areas of Queensland.

ICA chief executive Rob Whelen said the declaration meant insurers had established a taskforce to help coordinate the recovery process.

Mr Whelan said insurers had already received several thousand claims, but it was too early to estimate insurance losses and many more claims were expected this week as property owners returned from holidays.

It's the third catastrophe declared by the ICA in 2013, after severe bushfires in south-eastern Tasmania and northern New South Wales.

1:03pm Marissa Calligeros: Dam update:

Wivenhoe Dam was at 88 per cent capacity as of 8am on Sunday. Since Friday, 70,600 megalitres of water have been released from the dam. The releases are continuing at a rate of about 900 cubic metres per second. Releases are expected to continue for several days. 

Twin Bridges, Savages Crossing, Colleges Crossing, Burtons Bridge and Kholo Bridge are currently closed, as a result. Mt Crosby and Fernvale bridges have not impacted by the current release. No urban flooding is expected from the current controlled releases.

North Pine Dam is currently at 88.2 per cent capacity.

Water is now being released from Leslie Harrison Dam at a rate of four cubic metres per second. Releases are expected to continue throughout today, and may increase depending on rainfall.

12:53pm Marissa Calligeros: There have been reports of windows imploding in apartments along Alexandra Headland on the Sunshine Coast.

12:49pm Marissa Calligeros: Number of homes without power across Brisbane, according to Energex:

• Manly: 1020 homes
• Manly West: 696
• Virginia: 476
• Banyo: 446
• Chapel Hill: 307
• Indooroopilly: 279
• Clayfield: 214
• Wynnum West: 164
• Nundah: 154
• Wynnum: 115
• Wynnum: 113
• The Gap: 72
• Tarragindi: 69
• Enoggera Reservoir: 9
• Northgate: 7

12:43pm Marissa Calligeros: Brisbane's Local Disaster Management Group is due to meet at midday on Sunday. Lord Mayor Graham Quirk will be at that meeting.

12:40pm Bridie Jabour: Deborah Kennedy and Carl Forde walked for two kilometres in the storm surge just to check it out.

"It is crazy around here but we like walking, we wanted to see what it was like up at the beach," Ms Kennedy said.

Deborah Kennedy and Carl Forde. Photo: Michelle Smith

12:37pm Bridie Jabour: The storm surge has hit with full force in Brighton with locals saying they have never seen anything like it.

Here two teenage boys stand on the ocean side of the guard rail waiting for waves to break on top if them.

Teenagers at Brighton.

12:35pm AAP: Man walks 20km to find help in central Queensland:

A man at an evacuation centre in Gladstone walked for 20 kilometres in the dark to reach safety after his car flooded.

Centre volunteer Kerry Whitaker says the man had been camping at nearby Flutter Creek when he awoke late on Saturday to find his car was under water.

‘‘So he walked from Flutter Creek to the Calliope Police Station and the police brought him into the evacuation centre this morning,’’ he told ABC Radio.

‘‘It’s an amazing story - 20km he walked in the dark. It took him five hours. When he left his car, the water was up to his chest.’’

12:31pm Cameron Atfield: Exercise freaks at West End have some extra incentive to do those chin-ups, especially if they like their shoes.

Brisbane Times editor Simon Holt noticed the water lapping at the council-owned exercise equipment by the river.

Exercise equipment at West End goes under. Photo: Simon Holt

12:30pm Marissa Calligeros: Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand flights from Gold Coast Airport have been cancelled. Departing Jet Star flights are delayed. Travellers are advised to contact the airlines for information. 

12:26pm Cameron Atfield: It's not just Queensland feeling the effects of ex-cyclone Oswald.

Now, northern New South Wales is also on full flood alert.

12:17pm Amy Remeikis: The Bruce Highway is practically empty. There is a bit of water on the road through Caboolture, but nothing serious.

The creek under the bridge just past the Caboolture turn off (north bound) is rising, but would need another 1-1.5 metres to go for the highway to be cut.

The Bruce Highway at the Pine River Bridge. Photo: Amy Remeikis

12:13pm Marissa Calligeros: There are now 35,000 homes and businesses without power in the Gympie, Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay and Brisbane regions.

More than 300 powerlines have been brought down by strong winds and falling trees.

Report fallen powerlines to Energex on 13 19 62. 

12:11pm Bridie Jabour: At Flinders Parade, Brighton, the wind is so strong and the rain so heavy you can't see or breathe properly when walking in it.

The usually calm bay is crashing over the break wall so violently that the photographer and I got drenched by a wave while standing on the road, a pod 15 metres from the wall. A few locals are out surveying the scene but it hard to talk with all the wind and rain!

Storm surge at Brighton. Photo: Michelle Smith

12:01pm: Premier Campbell Newman says he may call in the army to help deal with the unfolding flood crisis.

The Premier has been inspecting the damage at Bargara, near Bundaberg, which suffered severe tornado damage.

The Brisbane-based 7th Brigade is on standby to provide support.

Channel 10 footage shows the damage wreaked by a tornado near Bundaberg. Photo: Courtesy Channel 10

11:59am Marissa Calligeros: Sunshine Coast Airport has been closed. No flights getting in or out today.

11:58am Marissa Calligeros: Send your wet weather photos and videos to us at scoop@brisbanetimes.com.au or MMS 0450 939 393.

11:56am Cameron Atfield: In case you needed a reminder about just how powerful nature can be, here's the ABC's Melinda Howells:

Damage in a Bargara home. Piece of timber sliced though the back door. @abcwidebay @abcnews twitter.com/MelindaHowells…

— Melinda Howells (@MelindaHowells) January 27, 2013

11:54am Marissa Calligeros with AAP: Residents near the town of Gympie are reportedly being rescued from their rooftops.

Mayor Ron Dyne told ABC radio there were people on rooftops in Widgee and Sexton. A swift water rescue team has been deployed in Widgee.

Flood waters are rising in the area, north of Brisbane, with the Mary River expected to peak at 17 metres - just shy of levels reached during floods that devastated the region in 2011.

The centre of Gympie is expected to flood later today.

11:47am Cameron Atfield: Police have reported several major road closures in the Gympie and South Burnett regions.

Major arterial roads are now cut off due to flooding include:

• Mary Valley Highway
• Bruce Highway
• Tin Can Bay Road
• Cooloola Coast Road
• Rainbow Beach Road
• and many other smaller roads.

"Many of these roads are unsigned and motorists are urged to limit all non-essential travel and to stay away from flooded roads," police say.

11:43am Marissa Calligeros: The army will likely be called in to help deal with Queensland's unfolding flood crisis.

Premier Campbell Newman  says the army would likely be called in to help authorities cope with the multiple fronts, with the Brisbane-based 7th Brigade on standby to provide support.

He inspected tornado damage at Bargara, near Bundaberg, on Sunday morning.

11:37am Cameron Atfield: Cathy Border from Ten News has been surveying the damage around Bundaberg.

Bundy damage @tennewsqld @theqldpremier twitter.com/Tencb/status/2…

— Cathy Border (@Tencb) January 27, 2013

11:37am Marissa Calligeros: More than 32,000 homes and businesses are without power mostly in the Gympie, Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay and Brisbane regions.  

Very high winds and poor visibility are impacting Energex crews' ability to restore power quickly.

Initial indications are some home and businesses could be without power until tomorrow.

Report fallen powerlines to Energex on 13 19 62.

11:31am Marissa Calligeros: Sunshine Coast Road Closures:

Bald Knob: Landsborough Maleny Road
Debris and vegetation near Bald Knob Road. Proceed with caution. 

Balmoral Ridge: Maleny Montville Road
Debris and vegetation over the road. Proceed with caution. 

Belli Park: Eumundi Kenilworth Road
Belli Creek Crossing is closed

Conondale: Maleny Kenilworth Road
Closed due to flooding at Minchenton Creek.

Cooroy: Elm Street (Cooroy Connection Road)
Road closed both directions.

Elaman Creek: Maleny Kenilworth Road 
Debris and vegetation over the road. Proceed with caution. 

Forest Glen: Maroochydoore Road
Water over road. Proceed with caution. 

Kenilworth: Obi Obi Road
Closed due to flooding.

Kenilworth: Kenilworth Brooloo Road
One lane closed due to landslide. Proceed with caution. 

Kilcoy: William Street
Closed to all vehicles.

Maleny: Landsborough Maleny Road
Debris and vegetation over the road. Proceed with caution.

Montville: Palmwoods Montville Road/Woombye-Montville Road
Road closed due to a landslip between Kirby Road and Maleny-Montville Road.

Mooloolaba: Sunshine Motorway on ramp
Debris and vegetation southbound Buderim Mooloolaba Road on ramp. Proceed with caution.

Obi Obi: Obi Obi Road
Downhill section of Obi Obi Road westbound between Mapleton and Kenilworth is subject to a five tonne GVM limit. Only open to cars and four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Palmwoods: Woombye Palmwoods Road/Woombye Montville Road
There is one foot of water over the road at rail underpass. Proceed with caution.

Peachester: Peachester Road/Kilcoy Beerwah Road
Closed to all vehicles.

Pomona: Factory Street
Closed to all vehicles.

Pomona: Hill Street
Closed both directions.

Somerset Dam: Esk Kilcoy Road (Main Street)
Tree down. Proceed with caution. 

Tanawha: Bruce Highway
Single vehicle crash southbound, near Ilkley Road. Proceed with caution.

Toogoolawah: Brisbane Valley Highway
Closed to all vehicles due to flooding.

Witta: Maleny Kenilworth Road
Landslide and trees down. Proceed with caution. 

Yandina: Yandin Bli Bli Road
Closed to all vehicles.

11:28am Cameron Atfield: If you need sandbags, Brisbane City Council is handing them out 24 hours a day from seven council depots.

Temporary depots:

• Cliff Street, Sandgate.
• Baskerville Street, Sandgate (opposite Wakefield Street).
• Herbert Street, Lota (outside the Council depot).

Permanent depots:

• Newmarket SES Field Services Group, Wilston Road, Newmarket. (in carpark off Erneton Street).
• Balmoral Field Services Group, Redfern Street, Balmoral.
• Darra Field Services Group, Shamrock Road, Darra.
• Virginia Depot, Lathe Street.

11:22am Amy Remeikis: Residents and tourists on the Sunshine Coast are being warned to stay inside, with winds of up to 125 km/h expected today.

There is debris on coastal roads, traffic signs have blown down, caravan parks are emptying and traffic lights are out.

It's like a cyclone's hit up here.

Fairfax reporter Amy Remeikis took this photo of the dangerous surf conditions at Mooloolaba. Photo: Amy Remeikis

11:18am Simon Holt: Premier Campbell Newman says it's a good day to stay indoors. He has pleaded with people not to drive into floodwaters, to stay away from electrical lines and to clean any debris from yards.

11:08am Cameron Atfield: Some timely advice from the Queensland Police Service, via Twitter:

PLEASE don't dial Triple Zero for road updates. Our Comms staff need the lines free for emergencies. 13 19 40 for road info. #bigwet

— QPS Media Unit (@QPSmedia) January 26, 2013

11:06am Marissa Calligeros: Road closures in Brisbane:

Bardon: Bowman Parade
Flash flooding. Road closed in both Directions. Diversions are in place.

Bellbowrie: Moggill Road
One lane closed. Short delays expected. Proceed with caution.

Brookfield: Boscombe Road
Road closed both directions.

Chuwar: Mount Crosby Road/Colleges Crossing
Colleges Crossing closed due to dam release. Road closed both directions.

Coorparoo: Cavendish Road
There is road surface damage on Cavendish Road between Milsom Street and Stanley Street East. Curb side lanes in both directions are closed to traffic. Proceed with caution.

Helidon: Warrego Highway
There are numerous pot holes eastbound between Helidon and Gatton. Proceed with caution. 

Kenmore Hills: Gap Creek Road
Road closed both directions.

Kholo: Kholo Road
The Kholo Road Bridge is closed due to flooding.

Mitchelton: Osborne Road
Debris and vegetation on the road. Short delays expected. Proceed with caution.

Pullenvale: Lancing Street
Road closed both directions.

Pullenvale: Grandview Road
Closed due to flooding near Pullenvale Primary School.

South Brisbane: Tribune Street
Closed between Merivale Street and Colchester Street.

Wynnum: Wynnum Road
One lane closed inbound at Kianawah Road. Traffic control on scene. 

A motorist drives through a flooded Sandgate Road at Albion. Photo: Michelle Smith

11:00am Bridie Jabour: At Albion, Breakfast Creek has already spilled over Sandgate Road, forcing cars to either turn around or risk driving through the water.

There was almost an accident when a P-plater in a four-wheel-drive was forced to rake hard in the water when travelling about 60km/h because the car in front stopped.

Police have now arrived to close the road at the intersection of Pedder Street.

Breakfast Creek has overflowed on to Sandgate Road, Albion. Photo: Michelle Smith

11:00am Marissa Calligeros: The Moggill Ferry service is closed until further notice.

10:54am: At Boyne Island, near Gladstone, hundreds of people have been evacuated.

Boyne Caltex manager Trevor Falzon says his service station is up on a hill, but floodwaters have already cut roads nearby.

 ‘‘I’ve never seen anything like this before,’’ he said.

Mr Falzon said his shop was a ‘‘madhouse’’ on Sunday morning as residents flocked to stock up on bread, milk and petrol.

‘‘I had 100 bottles of milk yesterday and now they’re all gone,’’ he said.

‘‘A lot of people are panicking and worried about their homes, but I think a lot of people do realise that they live in Queensland and these sorts of things are to be expected.’’

10:53am Cameron Atfield: Nearly 30,000 southeast Queensland residents are without power, according to Energex.

The worst affected council area is the Sunshine Coast (16,641), followed by Gympie (5118), Moreton Bay (3931) and Brisbane (2102).

The figures are constantly being updated on the Energex website.

10:39am Marissa Calligeros with AAP: Rescue crews in central Queensland are trying to rescue a woman stuck in floodwaters at Grevillea Creek near Biloela.

Banana Shire Mayor Ron Carriage says she has been clinging to her car and a tree since 3am (AEST) on Sunday.

‘‘The vehicle was washed off the road. She’s clinging to a tree, she still has I think some contact with the vehicle and the tree,’’ Cr Carriage told ABC radio.

He said rescuers had talked the woman on her mobile phone.

At Rockhampton, water police have rescued a boatie whose vessel was hit by an unoccupied boat in the swollen Fitzroy River early on Sunday morning.

The man had been sleeping on his boat when the other vessel crashed into it, sending both vessels floating down the river.

Water police rescued the boatie. The unoccupied vessel capsized.

And a search is continuing for one of two fisherman who went missing off Port Alma near Rockhampton.

The men made a distress call from a fishing vessel on Thursday night. 

One man was rescued Saturday, but the other remains missing.