Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Northern Goldfields and Upper Flinders, Herbert and Lower Burdekin, Central Coast and Whitsundays, Central Highlands and Coalfields and Capricornia Forecast Districts.

Issued at 11:54 pm Sunday, 24 December 2023.

Severe thunderstorms may produce giant hail in central-eastern Queensland.

Weather Situation: A strong upper trough moving over southern parts of the state is promoting severe thunderstorms across a broad area of southeastern and eastern Queensland.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large, possibly giant hailstones, damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Mackay, Collinsville, St Lawrence, Sarina and Nebo.

30mm was recorded at Gambubal in 30min to 10:30am.

35mm was recorded at Sandy Creek Road in 30min to 10:45am.

9cm hail recorded at Burpengary.

8cm hail recorded at Dayboro around 11:50am.

58mm of rainfall in 30 minutes at Wivenhoe Dam.

Emergency services advise people to:
* If you have children make sure they are with you or an adult you trust.
* Stay away from windows if there is giant hail.
* 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.