‘Intense rain’ closes beaches, while flash flooding and high winds expected

“Six-hourly rainfall totals of 100mm to 150mm are likely, and locally, heavier falls of about 200mm will be possible,” the bureau said in a warning.

Damaging winds with gusts of about 90km/h were also possible for parts of the coast, whipping up from early Sunday afternoon.

Meanwhile, lifesavers have closed dozens of beaches as a dangerous swell lashes the coastline.

Swimmers, fishers and surfers have been warned of dangerous conditions in Moreton Bay, Sunshine and Gold coast waters, and off the coast at Hervey Bay and Fraser Island.

Surf Life Saving Queensland spokeswoman Peta Lawlor said all Gold Coast beaches were closed on…