Brisbane is a subtropical city of more than 2.5 million people, situated on a flood-prone river. That’s why residents mustn’t get complacent after Cyclone Alfred.

The four large islands off Brisbane are popular getaways for locals. Now, in the wake of ex-tropical cyclone Alfred, they have another claim to fame: as the city’s protectors from extreme weather.

AMP chief economist Shane Oliver estimated the cost of the storm could be $1.1 billion a day based on the population of affected regions, but that was expected to be a “very short-term impact”. “Then you’ve got this flip side of that, the rebuilding kicks in and that acts as a stimulus,” Oliver said.

South East Queensland and northern NSW continue to experience thunderstorms, intense rainfall and flooding in the wake of Alfred. Follow our ongoing coverage.

Moderate flooding may occur along the Upper Brisbane River. The Brisbane River at Gregor Creek is currently at 1.02 metres and steady, below the minor flood level (3.50 metres). The Brisbane River at Gregor Creek may exceed the minor flood level (3.

Brisbane police are urging the community to remain vigilant towards severe weather risks as ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred moves over southeast Queensland

Brisbane residents have relived their horror after a massive gum tree came crashing through their family home during cyclonic winds last night.

Brisbane bus drivers braved wild conditions to deliver 700 services on Sunday morning before being recalled about 11am but the southeast’s trains and ferries are still offline.