Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Central Coast and Whitsundays Forecast District.

Issued at 9:20 am Monday, 25 December 2023.

Severe thunderstorms developing south of Mackay.

Weather Situation: A strong upper trough moving over southern parts of the state is promoting thunderstorms across a broad area of Queensland. A near-stationary cluster of severe thunderstorms around Cape Palmerston is producing heavy rainfall and the risk of damaging wind gusts.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Sarina.

Severe thunderstorms are no longer occurring in the Northern Goldfields and Upper Flinders district and the warning for this district is CANCELLED.

Emergency services advise people 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.