THE worst of the storm which has ravaged the Sunshine Coast is believed to have passed.

Sunshine Coast Local Disaster Management chairman Mayor Mark Jamieson said the extreme weather system had picked up speed and was moving more quickly than expected across the region.

"The worst now appears to have passed in the north of the region but residents are asked not to be complacent, as further rain and wind gusts may still be experienced," Cr Jamieson said.

"The weather has had significant impacts around the region, including a number of road closures, power outages, localised flooding and flights cancelled due to the wild weather."

Local Disaster Coordinator Alan 'Fox' Rogers said the latest report from Energex advised there were more than 23,000 customers without power supply across the region.

"Energex has recorded three times more damage to the network than it has ever experienced before," Mr Rogers said.

"Crews are isolating and making safe affected areas but it could be up to 48 hours before power is restored in some locations.

"Most importantly - if you see a power line down - report it, don't touch it. Phone Energex emergency line on 13 19 62. To report power outages contact Energex on 13 62 62.

Kenilworth, Conondale, Crystal Waters, Cooran and Pomona are currently isolated and experiencing intermittent power outages.

"Although the rain has ceased in many areas, the catchments have received up to 400mm of rainfall, which is still to flow downstream. Of particular concern are the Mary River and Six Mile Creek" Mr Rogers said.

"Many local rivers and creeks are still rising and are yet to peak. Residents are reminded to stay safe and avoid floodwaters and drainage areas.

"Importantly, remember-whether driving or being tempted to enter a river or creek - if it's flooded, forget it.

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"There are over 100 road closures across the region and if people must travel, check council's website at www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au or on Main Roads website www.131940.qld.gov.au for affected roads"

Council-operated Emergency Evacuation Centres are now open at:

Nambour Civic Centre, 60-64 Currie Street, Nambour

The J at Noosa Junction, 60 Noosa Drive, Noosa Heads

Caloundra Indoor Stadium, Caloundra Road, Golden Beach

Fort- five visitors and campers have taken shelter at the Kenilworth SES shed, which is the designated local evacuation centre. The group captain reports they are all safe and well.

"Due to road closures, access to the Nambour General Hospital is via Parklands exit from the Bruce Highway, Mr Rogers said.

"People without access to transport who need to head to an evacuation centre can book transport through the Council Cab program 1300 139 433."

Sunshine Coast Airport is closed and all flights cancelled for today. The airport may reopen tomorrow and passengers should check their airline's website for details.

Coast beaches will remain closed to swimmers due to the dangerous conditions.

Meanwhile, UnityWater reports that some pump stations have failed and overflowed, with some overflows entering waterways at Golden Beach, Tooway Lake and Buderim Falls.

Signage will be erected in these areas.

Residents have been warned to stay out of floodwater and take note of warning signs and directives.

The council's waste service facilities are closed today and conditions will be reassessed tomorrow morning.