Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Gympie Council Area.

Issued at 2:53 pm Thursday, 2 October 2025.

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WITH GIANT HAIL APPROACHING RAINBOW BEACH.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 2:50 pm, a VERY DANGEROUS THUNDERSTORM likely to produce large, possibly giant hailstones and damaging winds was detected near Rainbow Beach and Tin Can Bay. This thunderstorm is moving towards the southeast. It is forecast to affect Double Is Point and Wide Bay by 3:20 pm.

5 CM HAIL RECORDED AT OAKHURST AT 2:15 PM.

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.

A more general severe thunderstorm warning is also current for parts of the Wide Bay and Burnett and Southeast Coast districts.