Overview: Extreme weather wraps up 2025
Australia ends the year under the influence of two powerful tropical weather systems. In Queensland, a relentless downpour has pushed rainfall totals to the metre mark at several sites, underscoring the scale of the deluge that has saturated the state for days. Off the coast, Western Australia’s cyclone has weakened from peak gusts to a tropical-system remnant, gradually losing its ferocity as it moves away from populated areas.
Queensland’s enduring deluge
Across multiple weather-warning boundaries, Queensland continues to experience severe rainfall that has swollen rivers, triggered evacuations in flood-prone zones, and forced road closures. At three locations, rainfall totals exceeded one metre (approximately 39 inches), a figure that highlights the intensity and longevity of this event. Meteorologists note that such extreme rainfall is typically associated with slow-moving storm systems that stall over a region, allowing prolonged downpours that overwhelm drainage and flood defenses.
Impacts on communities
Residents have faced disrupted commutes, flooded streets, and overwhelmed drainage systems. Local authorities have issued warnings for potential riverine flooding as creeks and waterways rise. Emergency services remain on heightened alert, prioritizing swift rescues and ensuring vulnerable populations are safe. As rainfall continues to fall in some corridors, preparations for possible evacuations and insurance claims are already underway, reflecting the heavy economic toll these events can impose.
WA cyclone downgrades after 158 km/h gust
In Western Australia, the cyclone, which recorded a peak gust of 158 km/h, has been downgraded as it weakens and travels farther from major towns. While the strongest winds have diminished, the system continues to bring gusty winds, heavy rainfall, and rough seas to coastal communities. Weather models suggest the cyclone will continue to decay over the next 24 to 48 hours, reducing its immediate threat but prolonging wet conditions for affected areas.
Climatological context
Experts emphasize that such simultaneous tropical events are consistent with shifting climate patterns that bring volatile, high-energy weather to different parts of the country. Forecasters stress the importance of staying informed via official weather advisories, especially for Queensland, where flood alerts can escalate quickly with additional rainfall and saturated soils.
<h2 What to watch next
As the calendar turns, residents should monitor river levels and local flood advisories. Authorities are likely to announce updated evacuation orders or sheltering recommendations if rivers rise further. Aviation and transport services may experience delays due to rain, wind, and localized flooding, with confidence gradually returning as the weather system loses intensity.
<h2 Conclusion
With Queensland grappling with a metre-plus rainfall and Western Australia watching a downgrading cyclone, the final hours of 2025 serve as a stark reminder of Australia’s diverse and powerful tropical weather. Preparedness, timely information, and community resilience remain the best responses to these extreme conditions.
