The Burnett is still reeling from a heavy storm that brought down trees and powerlines overnight – but Australia’s meteorologists have warned the ‘worst is yet to come’ going into the weekend.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for parts of the Wide Bay-Burnett including the western North and South Burnett regions.
Forecasters warn that an upper-level trough and a “very unstable atmosphere” are likely to produce heavy rainfall, damaging wind and large hail at locations like Monto and Eidsvold in the North Burnett and Kingaroy and Nanango in the South.
Daniel Hayes of the Bureau said that, starting on the night of 10 January, storms are expected to batter the Burnett.
“Showers and storms are becoming more widespread today, overnight and into tomorrow,” Mr Hayes said.
“The period from tonight [10 January] through to tomorrow evening is likely to be the peak of the activity through southern Queensland, and [we’re expecting it to] ease off by Sunday – but we’ll still potentially see a fair bit of shower and storm activity into Monday.
“There’s still the potential that we could have severe storms in that mix, which may bring heavier falls, damaging winds and large hail,” he said.
The Bureau’s spokesperson said the severe storms may trigger flash flooding alerts.
“As we go into the weekend, make sure you keep an eye on the Bureau’s website and other avenues to see any warnings that might be issued,” Mr Hayes said.
Emergency services advise people in affected areas to:
• Park your car undercover away from trees.
• Close doors and windows.
• Keep asthma medications close by. Storms and wind can trigger asthma attacks.
• Charge mobile phones and power banks in case the power goes out.
• Put your pets somewhere safe and make sure they can be identified in case they get lost.
• Do not drive now unless you have to because conditions are dangerous.
• Tell friends, family and neighbours in the area.
• Go inside a strong building now. Stay inside until the storm has passed.
