Destructive winds, giant hail stones and heavy rainfall are possible with the Bureau’s latest storm warning.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for people in Wide Bay and Burnett, Capricornia and parts of Central Coast and Whitsundays, Central Highlands and Coalfields, Central West, Maranoa and Warrego, Darling Downs and Granite Belt and Southeast Coast Forecast Districts.
The warning was issued at 3.11pm Monday, 24 October.
Several surface troughs are extending over Queensland from a low-pressure system over North West Victoria.
These troughs are drawing warm, humid air over eastern Queensland leading to favourable conditions for severe thunderstorms.
Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging, locally destructive winds, large, possibly giant hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations that may be affected include Kingaroy, Nanango, Roma, Gympie, Bundaberg, Gladstone, Rockhampton, Mackay, Blackwater, Barcaldine, Yeppoon, and Mount Morgan.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advise people should:
* Move your car under cover or away from trees.
* Secure loose outdoor items.
* Never drive, walk or ride through flood waters. If it’s flooded, forget it.
* Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.
* Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm.
* Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.
* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.
The next warning is due at 6.15pm
If severe thunderstorms develop in the Southeast Queensland area (east of Dalby from Rainbow Beach to Stanthorpe), a more detailed Severe Thunderstorm Warning will be issued to people in this area.
Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau’s website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210.
