Queensland weather: Widespread rainfall forecast as Sunshine Coast drenched

The Sunshine Coast has copped the most significant falls in South East Queensland as wet weather smashes coastal and inland areas. See the totals so far:

Flash flooding has cut several roads on the Sunshine Coast after more than 200mm of rain fell in less than 24 hours with more tipped to come.

The Sunshine Coast has received the most rainfall out of all of South East Queensland as wet weather impacts areas across the state.

Flood alerts have not been issued however the intense rainfall has caused some flash flooding.

David Low Way, Bli Bli and Denna St, Maroochydore were affected by flash flooding after lunch on Monday.

As of 3.15pm it was reported Yandina Creek Rd was closed in both directions at North Arm due to flooding.

Bureau of Meteorology meteorologist Helen Reid said Coolum West recorded 200mm of rain in the 24 hours to 9am, while there was 133mm at Maroochydore.

She said the heaviest falls were confined to pockets of the Sunshine Coast with nearby suburbs such as Caloundra receiving only 20mm.

“We did expect somewhere in South East Queensland to receive more … and absolutely the Sunshine Coast has received the brunt of it,” she said.

The rainfall is expected to continue until Friday.

Ms Reid said the majority of rainfall was being received in central and northern Queensland.

The forecast weather has also led to the temporary removal of shark nets at Gold and Sunshine Coast beaches.

Winds were predicted to hit around 30 knots and swells up to four metres across the majority of Queensland’s east coast until Sunday.

Shark nets were removed on Monday however drumlins remained in the water.

Fisheries Queensland Shark Control Program operations co-ordinator Sam Fary said equipment was removed for public safety because it can come loose and be a danger to swimmers and boats during high seas.

On Friday Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk warned for the looming wet weather which could bring “incredibly heavy rain” in some parts.

Ms Palaszczuk said authorities were monitoring the developing weather event as it was expected to ramp up this week.

Significant rainfall totals are expected across large parts of the state, with North Queensland expected to cop the biggest totals.

Bureau of Meteorology hazard preparedness officer Brooke Pagel said the heaviest falls were likely on Wednesday and Thursday.

“It is unseasonal rainfall due to a few factors, including the La Nina which is still contributing to above average rainfall,” she said.

“It is recommended that people check the Queensland Traffic website which will show any road closures such as flash flooding for roads that do go under with a bit of water then quickly recede.

“Keep safety in mind this weekend and next week. Stay off the roads if you can.”