Heavy Rain and Flood Recovery Disrupt Monday Commute Across Gold Coast

Monday Commute Overview

Commuters across the Gold Coast are advised to exercise extreme caution this Monday, 16 February 2026, as the city continues to recover from a severe weather system that brought record-breaking rainfall over the weekend. With additional rain forecast throughout the day, authorities have warned of renewed flash flooding risks, particularly in low-lying areas and hinterland causeways. Significant road closures and ongoing construction projects are expected to cause delays on major arteries.

Weather-Related Road Closures

Following the intense rainfall that saw some areas receive over 200mm, several local roads remain closed or under monitoring. Emergency services have highlighted the following areas as high-risk for the Monday morning peak:

• Berrigans Road, Mudgeeraba: Remained closed between Gold Coast Springbrook Road and Mark Way due to significant flash flooding.
• Tallebudgera Valley and Worongary: Multiple causeways are currently underwater. Drivers are urged to avoid Gunsynd Drive and Mount Cougal Road, where debris and water over the road have made conditions hazardous.
• Hardys Road and Highfield Drive: Long-term flooding persists in these sections, with no immediate reopening time set for Monday morning.

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast approximately 27mm of rain for today, which may result in rapid runoff and the sudden closure of further suburban streets. Remember: if it's flooded, forget it.

Major Project Roadworks and Detours

Beyond the weather impacts, several major infrastructure projects are affecting traffic flow today:

• Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3: Construction continues between Miami and Burleigh Heads. While track installation is wrapping up in the northern sections, motorists should expect lane narrowings and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h along the Gold Coast Highway in Burleigh.
• Coomera Connector (M9): While the Stage 1 North section is now open to traffic, construction for the Central package is active near Helensvale. Commuters should be aware of detours near Ridgevale Drive where bridge overpass works are in progress.
• M1 Pacific Motorway: Although major widening between Varsity Lakes and Tugun is largely complete, maintenance and road rehabilitation are scheduled near Nineteenth Avenue and Dogwood Drive in Palm Beach. Partial lane closures may be in effect during off-peak hours, but barriers remain in place for the morning commute.

Public Transport and Rail Alerts

Translink has reported a 'Major' service status for the Gold Coast Line due to the weekend's weather and lingering signaling issues. Commuters traveling toward Brisbane should check the latest timetables, as delays of up to 15 minutes were recorded early this morning. G:link light rail services are currently operating on schedule, though passengers are advised to allow extra time for travel to stations in the Burleigh precinct due to heavy localized traffic on the highway.

Commuter Advice

To ensure a smoother journey, residents are encouraged to leave at least 20 minutes earlier than usual and monitor the City of Gold Coast's disaster dashboard for real-time updates on flood-prone crossings. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for those in the hinterland, but all motorists should avoid any roads where water is visible across the pavement.