Flash Flood Alerts and Late-Night Rail Shutdowns: Gold Coast Commute Update for Friday, Feb 13

Severe Weather Alert: Flash Flooding Risk

Gold Coast commuters are urged to exercise extreme caution today, Friday, 13 February 2026, as the City of Gold Coast has issued a 'Prepare Now' alert for the region. Heavy rainfall, which began late Thursday evening, is forecast to continue through the weekend, significantly increasing the risk of flash flooding in urban and low-lying areas. Motorists should be aware that roads may be closed with little to no notice if water levels rise rapidly. The message remains clear: if it is flooded, forget it.

Major Roadworks and Arterial Delays

Beyond the weather challenges, several major road projects and maintenance works are impacting key arteries across the coast today:

• Tugun Bypass (M1): Planned roadworks at Exit 95 (Tugun Currumbin Road to Gold Coast Highway) have resulted in full road closures. Diversions are in place, and significant delays are expected for those heading south toward the border.
• Gold Coast Highway (Stage 3 Light Rail): Construction continues between Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads. The highway remains restricted to a 3.0m lane width in both directions, making it unsuitable for oversized vehicles and causing slow-moving traffic during peak periods.
• Beaudesert Nerang Road: Lane reductions are in effect near Mt Nathan Road due to ongoing roadworks. Commuters traveling between Nerang and the Hinterland should allow for extra travel time.
• Burleigh Heads: Overnight bus stop closures remain in effect on the Gold Coast Highway through Saturday, 14 February. Check local signage for the nearest temporary boarding points.

Public Transport: Weekend Rail Shutdown

Public transport users need to plan their Friday evening carefully. A major weekend track closure is scheduled to begin at 11:00 PM tonight, Friday, 13 February. This will affect both the Gold Coast and Beenleigh lines. Rail replacement buses will take over services between Boggo Road and Varsity Lakes stations from late tonight through the end of Sunday. If you are heading into Brisbane for events like the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, ensure you have checked the final train departure times to avoid being stranded.

Commuter Advice

Given the combination of heavy rain and infrastructure works, commuters are advised to monitor the Gold Coast Disaster and Emergency Dashboard for real-time road closure updates. If you are using the rail network tonight, aim to complete your journey before 11:00 PM or be prepared to transfer to a railbus. Heavy vehicle operators should avoid the Gold Coast Highway construction zones where possible due to the strict width restrictions currently in place.