Risk of flash flooding as Brisbane braces for public holiday downpour

Flash flooding in Brisbane is possible for the Ekka public holiday, with increasingly heavy rain predicted across the region.

Between 15 and 60 millimetres is predicted to fall in south-east Queensland on Wednesday.

“We could see flash flooding or catchment responses from the rivers,” Daniel Hayes from the Bureau of Meteorology says.

Minor flash flooding possible in Brisbane. Credit: Felicity Caldwell

“Before this event the catchments were pretty dry, but they have started to wet up.

“We may see some moderate flooding … [but] at this stage it’s not a huge risk.

“It’s a little unusual to have this time of the year, but not unheard of.”

A flood watch has been issued for the state’s coast, stretching from Shoalwater Bay, in central Queensland, south to Tweed Heads.

The Seqwater Flood Operations Centre has been put on alert, with water being released from Somerset Dam, into Wivenhoe Dam, as a precaution.

Rain is expected to clear from Thursday.

“It’s moving towards what looks like a fairly fine weekend … a fairly dry and warm weekend,” Hayes said.

All beaches on the Gold Coast have been closed due to hazardous surf conditions.

“Lifeguards will continue to monitor the situation closely,” a statement from City of Gold Coast Council said.