Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Central Highlands and Coalfields and Central West Forecast Districts.

Issued at 11:05 pm Wednesday, 21 January 2026.

Severe thunderstorms with possible damaging winds and heavy rainfall in the Central West tonight.

Weather Situation: A moist and unstable airmass combines with a trough through the interior to produce isolated severe thunderstorms through Queensland's interior tonight.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce 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 Emerald, Clermont, Barcaldine, Moranbah, Blackall and Dysart.

94 km/h wind gust was recorded at Trepell Airport at 7:42 pm.

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.