A slow-moving tropical storm crossed islands off Australia’s heavily populated eastern coast late Friday, lashing coastal suburbs with destructive winds and dumping heavy rain across the region.

Fallen trees across the region have already damaged power lines, homes and cars, while the Gold Coast's renowned beaches have become steep sandy cliffs after days of relentless erosion.

Fresh evacuation orders have been issued in Australia’s east coast as a former tropical cyclone causes significant damage and flooding.