Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Christmas Eve Storm Batters Queensland, 50,000 Lightning Strikes

12/24/2025

50 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A Christmas Eve storm in south-east Queensland caused widespread power outages, affecting thousands of homes.
The storm produced about 50,000 lightning strikes across the region.
One notable strike hit a large tree in Lutwyche, Brisbane; Alysa Darby, a resident of Lutwyche, described a significant crack before it fell.
A video captured the moment, showing a bare patch of bark where the lightning struck.

1 of 1

Story summary

A Christmas Eve storm in south-east Queensland caused widespread power outages, affecting thousands of homes.
The storm produced about 50,000 lightning strikes across the region.
One notable strike hit a large tree in Lutwyche, Brisbane; Alysa Darby, a resident of Lutwyche, described a significant crack before it fell.
A video captured the moment, showing a bare patch of bark where the lightning struck.