Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Herbert and Lower Burdekin Forecast District.

Issued at 1:34 pm Sunday, 4 January 2026.

Localised heavy rainfall with showers and isolated thunderstorms in the Townsville area

Weather Situation: A weak trough lies near stationary in the Townsville area, embedded in an airmass featuring deep tropical moisture and moderate instability. This will support the development of slow-moving heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms in the next hour or two.

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

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.