Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Central Highlands and Coalfields, Capricornia, Wide Bay and Burnett, Darling Downs and Granite Belt, Southeast Coast and Maranoa and Warrego Forecast Districts.

Issued at 9:53 pm Saturday, 23 December 2023.

Severe thunderstorms continue about the southeast this evening.

Weather Situation: A warm and unstable airmass over southeast Queensland is leading to the development of severe thunderstorms this evening. An approaching upper jet is likely to see these thunderstorms continue overnight, possibly remaining severe as they move to the east.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging, locally destructive winds, large, possibly giant hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Darling Downs and Granite Belt and Southeast Coast districts. Locations which may be affected include Ipswich, Gatton, Jimboomba, Laidley, Lowood and Mount Tamborine.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Central Highlands and Coalfields, Capricornia, Wide Bay and Burnett, Darling Downs and Granite Belt and Maranoa and Warrego districts. Locations which may be affected include Taroom and Theodore.

Emergency services advise people to:
* If you have children make sure they are with you or an adult you trust.
* Pack away, secure or tie down outdoor furniture, toys and trampolines if it s safe to do so.
* 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.