Thousands to swelter without power as mercury soars again across south-east Queensland
Moderated by Tomas Kauer 
More than 3500 homes and businesses remain without power in south-east Queensland this morning after the region was hit by more severe storms yesterday evening.
While the sun is out, and there are no storms on the forecast today, the region is expected to swelter in temperatures well over 30 degrees as the clean-up effort continues.
Brisbane will see a top of 34 degrees today, as high as 35 degrees in the northern suburbs.
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Out west, the mercury will hit 37 degrees in Ipswich, while the Gold Coast is likely to reach 31 degrees.
Up to 2000 customers, many on Bribie Island which was hardest hit by storms last weekend, have been without power since Monday.
Energex said a clear forecast today should allow crews to restore power to all affected homes and businesses by tonight.
The heat will linger into the weekend, with some further storms possible on Saturday, but is likely to dissipate by early next week, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
Six weekends in a row of severe storms have triggered an "insurance catastrophe" declaration by the Insurance Council of Australia, meaning storm-damage claims will be prioritised.
Disaster payments have also been activated for five south-east Queensland government areas, $180 for individuals and up to $900 for families.
Wednesday night's storm dumped hail on the Brisbane CBD, Milton and Bardon, as well as Elanora and Palm Beach on the Gold Coast.
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Warwick on the Southern Downs was hit by strong winds that tore roofs off houses, and brought down trees and powerlines.
The Warwick Turf Club was forced to temporarily close after some of its facilities and infrastructure were destroyed.
The machinery shed was torn to pieces and collapsed within minutes, while part of the clubhouse roof also went flying.
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