What began as a routine drive through southern Queensland quickly turned into a life-or-death ordeal for Fiona Simpson, a mother traveling with her infant daughter and the child’s grandmother.
An ordinary Thursday afternoon became extraordinary when dark clouds gathered and a sudden hailstorm transformed the road into a battlefield.
A Mother’s Courage
Expecting nothing more than a typical journey, Ms. Simpson found herself confronting a violent hailstorm with little warning. Tennis-ball-sized hailstones shattered car windows and pelted the back seat, where her baby was secured.
Acting purely on instinct, she climbed into the rear seat and shielded her daughter with her own body, absorbing the full force of the hail. The deafening roar of the storm made it impossible to hear her child’s cries, but her determination never wavered.
When the storm passed, Ms. Simpson surveyed the damage: broken windows, dents across the vehicle, and bruises covering her arms, shoulders, and back. Ambulance crews transported her for treatment, and she reflected on the terrifying moments. “If I hadn’t done that, my daughter could have been badly injured or worse,” she said, emphasizing the power of parental instinct in emergencies.
Widespread Storm Damage
The hailstorm was part of a larger weather system sweeping across Queensland, bringing torrential rain, gusts up to 60 miles per hour, and localized tornadoes. Some areas saw 100 millimeters of rain in 24 hours, causing flash flooding and widespread disruption. Emergency services received over 300 calls for assistance with fallen trees, blocked roads, and trapped residents. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with limited mobility, faced heightened danger, underscoring the importance of community support and preparedness.
Rural areas were hit particularly hard. Tornadoes and high winds destroyed roofs, sheds, and crops, while livestock losses added financial strain.
Chicken farmer Leanne Geri reported losing hundreds of birds, and dairy farmer Brian Tessmann faced significant property and equipment damage. Recovery and rebuilding will take months, highlighting the storm’s extensive impact on livelihoods.
Lessons in Bravery and Preparedness
Ms. Simpson’s bravery stands out amid the chaos, demonstrating how instinct, courage, and love can drive extraordinary actions. “I’m just a mum,” she said. “You do whatever it takes.” Her story not only highlights parental devotion but also the resilience ordinary people can summon in extreme circumstances.
Authorities continue to assess the full impact of the storm, urging residents to monitor weather forecasts, avoid travel during severe conditions, and check on neighbours who may need assistance.
Conclusion
The Queensland hailstorm left destruction in its wake—from damaged homes and injured residents to devastated farms. Yet amid the chaos, stories like Fiona Simpson’s shine through as a testament to human courage, selflessness, and the power of instinct.
Her actions remind us that in the face of extreme adversity, bravery, devotion, and community solidarity can make all the difference.