In late February and early March 2022, Southeast Queensland faced a severe weather event, with over 700mm of rainfall in some areas and the Logan River swelling to levels not seen since the 2017 floods. Approximately 300 properties in Logan were affected, leaving communities isolated and without power for days.
On Wednesday, February 23, the Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe weather warning for damaging winds and heavy rainfall across Southeast Queensland, including Logan. The following day, another flood watch warning was issued as the weather system continued to develop over the region for four days.
By Friday, February 25, intense rainfall led to flash flooding in Logan, affecting numerous roads and causing the Logan River at Maclean Bridge to exceed 8 meters. The situation persisted on Saturday, February 26, with moderate flooding at Maclean Bridge and ongoing road closures due to the severe weather conditions.
As the weather system persisted, Sunday, February 27 saw more than 220mm of rain recorded in 24 hours, prompting emergency alerts for 16 suburbs in Logan. Strong winds from a severe thunderstorm caused further damage in the region, leading to fallen trees and property destruction.
By Monday morning, February 28, the rainfall eased, but major flood warnings remained as the Logan and Albert rivers continued to rise. Schools were closed, public transport operations were cancelled, and access to Logan Hospital was limited due to flooding, requiring alternative routes for emergency services.
In the evening of February 28, the Logan River height at Maclean Bridge peaked at 20.64 meters, nearing levels seen during ex-tropical cyclone Debbie in 2017. Areas like Logan Reserve, Flagstone, and Jimboomba became isolated as rising floodwaters cut off road access.
On March 1, flood levels remained high at Maclean Bridge, and the Logan River between Waterford and Parklands continued to rise. State schools in Logan were closed, and an evacuation center at Logan Metro Sports & Events Centre provided support to displaced residents.
As floodwaters began to recede on March 1 and 2, the Logan City Council reported significant rainfall amounts and river levels not seen since 1974. Cleanup and recovery efforts were commended by Mayor Darren Power, emphasizing the collaborative work of emergency services, volunteers, and community agencies in response to the crisis.
Despite the extensive damage to properties, Mayor Power expressed gratitude that there was no loss of life in the City of Logan. The focus shifted to flood cleanup and recovery, with around 300 properties affected by riverine flooding and approximately 200 roads closed or impacted by floodwaters.
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