In the first week of May widespread flooding and heavy rainfall was reported in south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales. An East Coast Low commenced at the end of April and caused heavy seas, strong winds and heavy rainfall. A tidal surge created by the low pressure system caused above average tidal conditions and storm force winds of up to 65 knots were recorded at Moreton Island. Water catchment areas recorded up to 1000 mm, with the worst affected areas Brisbane and the Darling Downs region. Furthermore the extreme weather conditions also affected the Lockyer creek, Bremer and Logan rivers.

Both Queensland and New South Wales reported extensive damage to farming areas, including vegetable and cotton crops.

There were five deaths recorded.

The Insurance Council of Australia estimated the 1996 damage at $31m with, the 2007 estimated repeated cost of $87m.