Australia Braces for Aftermath: Storm Leaves Regions Flooded

Australia's east coast faces aftermath of a tropical storm, with flooding and power outages affecting thousands. Prime Minister urges vigilance as floodwaters rise in parts of Queensland and New South Wales. Clean-up efforts begin, with welfare support for affected workers announced.

Australia's prime minister issued a strong warning on the continued impact of a tropical storm as parts of Queensland and New South Wales stayed submerged under dangerous floodwaters, despite the waning threat of the deluge as of Monday.

The storm caused casualties, toppling trees and power lines, with one person dead and several injured. Initially predicted to hit southeast Queensland as the first tropical cyclone in over five decades, the system ultimately weakened but still prompted record power outages and school closures.

Authorities declared a disaster in Ipswich, advising residents to evacuate. Meanwhile, the recovery efforts included welfare aid for affected workers starting Tuesday, as some areas began restoring electricity and assessing damage.