Territories of Queensland affected by “unprecedented” storms now face the prospect of days without electricity amid extreme heat.
Storms and flash floods across south-east Queensland has claimed the lives of seven people since Christmas, but households have now been warned to prepare for a heatwave.
The federal minister for disaster and emergency management, Murray Watt, said on Thursday that residents should look out for neighbors who are elderly or living with disabilities.
“If you have fans or air conditioning available and the power is on, today is the day to use them,” Watt said.
“If you haven’t, today is the day to think about using those public libraries, public pools and other spaces to stay safe.”
More than 120,000 homes and businesses lost power during extreme rain, lightning and wind.
Queensland Energy Minister Mick de Brenni said 63 per cent of customers without power since Monday and Tuesday were “unprecedented” storms their services have now been restored.
“By the evening of December 30, we aim to have power restored to 80 percent of households and businesses across the affected region,” he said.
“By New Year’s Eve, we aim to have 90 percent resupplied.”
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate thanked volunteers who came from across the country Queensland and northern NSW to help with recovery after hundreds of local homes were damaged.
Council services such as public swimming pools will be open to help people cool off during the extreme heat days, he said.
“We are lucky to have two days of reprieve from the strong winds and violent storm.
“It’s time to get ready.”
Premier Steven Miles said the government had activated disaster relief for parts of the Gold Coast, Logan and Scenic Rim following the devastating storms.
The aid package includes emergency grants of $180 for individuals and up to $900 for families.
Uninsured low- to middle-income residents will be eligible for grants of up to $1,765 for individuals and $5,300 for couples or families to replace household contents lost to storm damage.
Watt said these households can also apply for help of up to $5,000 with the cost of restoring connections to electricity, water and gas.
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