SEVERE STORM: Damaging winds, hail likely

The Bureau has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for parts of the Burnett.

A severe thunderstorm warning including damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall has been issued for parts of the Burnett.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued the warning at 4.37pm on Wednesday 4 January for people in parts of Central Highlands and Coalfields, Central West, Wide Bay and Burnett, Maranoa and Warrego, Darling Downs and Granite Belt and Southeast Coast Forecast Districts.

Meteorologists explained that a trough extending from the southern interior into NSW, and along with a secondary trough closer to the east coast were producing thunderstorms today.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.

Thunderstorms are forecast to affect Kingaroy, Nanango, Gatton, Lowood, Dalby and Ipswich.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises that 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.