Sharjah24 – AFP: One person was found dead in a submerged car and 10 others were reportedly missing on Wednesday after heavy rain caused flash flooding in eastern Australia and set off a string of emergency warnings up and down the Pacific coast.
The body of the drowned 60-year-old was found early Wednesday in the state of Queensland, premier Annastacia Palaszczuk told parliament, describing the incident as a "tragedy".
Almost half a meter (1.5 feet) of rain has fallen on some parts of her state in the last 24 hours, causing multiple road closures and transport chaos.
Emergency services received more than a hundred calls for help and swift water rescue crews have been despatched to assist dozens of stranded residents.
Emergency services have received more than a hundred calls for help and swift water rescue crews have been despatched to rescue dozens of stranded residents.
A freight train overturned near the town of Gympie, although the driver was said to have minor injuries.
Local media quoted Sunshine Coast Police District Superintendent Craig Hawkins as saying 10 people were also missing.
Fifteen Queensland dams are at capacity and more rain is expected in the coming days.
Police warned motorists to avoid driving through flooded roads and to stay at home.
"Flash flooding is occurring on roads and bridges - Re-consider your need to travel today," police told residents.
Heavy rain has also pelted the state of New South Wales, where parts of Sydney were briefly submerged Tuesday.
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