BRISBANE, Australia (CNN) -- At least six people have died in record-setting floods swamping southeastern Queensland state in Australia, authorities said Wednesday.
The rains inundating the tropical coastline are said to be the worst in a century. About 110 miles (180 kilometers) north of Brisbane, the city of Gympie has been worst hit. There, the Mary River peaked at nearly 72 feet (22 meters), its highest level since 1893.
Damage in the area could reach millions of dollars. Only the roofs of some Gympie homes were visible Wednesday. Authorities said they rescued some people by helicopter and others by boat.
``One couple had put their furniture higher and higher up in their house until eventually they had to be pulled from the attic by the rescue helicopter,'' said emergency services spokesman Ray Myers.
Helicopters dropped food and medical supplies into rural that had been without power for two days, Myers said.
The swollen Mary River is expected to peak around Maryborough -- about 150 miles (250 km) north of Brisbane -- on Thursday. Police have begun evacuations from low-lying areas around the town.