A dramatic weather event struck Brisbane today, as a gustnado—a whirlwind resembling a tornado—ripped through the Brisbane River, sending onlookers scrambling for shelter. This rare weather phenomenon occurred as a powerful storm cell moved over the city, bringing heavy rains, gusty winds, and heightened caution across the region.
The gustnado, a short-lived yet intense whirlwind that forms along the outflow boundary of a storm, created a vortex that startled residents and visitors along the river. Appearing almost indistinguishable from a tornado, the swirling winds seemed to dance across the water’s surface, lifting debris and sending waves in all directions. The spectacle was both mesmerizing and alarming, with many residents describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime sight.
As the gustnado skimmed across the Brisbane River, people in exposed areas quickly sought cover, recognizing the danger posed by the unpredictable whirlwind. Meteorologists have explained that gustnadoes, while similar in appearance to tornadoes, form differently and are typically less destructive. However, they can still create wind speeds strong enough to pose risks to unprotected individuals and unsecured structures.
Today’s gustnado highlighted the volatile weather patterns in Brisbane, as storm systems are known to bring sudden, intense weather events to the area. The Bureau of Meteorology continues to monitor conditions closely and has advised residents to remain cautious as the storm cell moves through, with possible thunderstorms and high winds expected to continue into the evening.