Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Herbert and Lower Burdekin and North Tropical Coast and Tablelands Forecast Districts.

Issued at 10:01 pm Sunday, 4 January 2026.

Localised heavy rainfall likely over parts of NE Qld this evening.

Weather Situation: An airmass featuring deep tropical moisture and moderate instability remains in place over northeastern Queensland, with several weak troughs in the area that may provide a focus for development of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.

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 Palm Island, Ingham, Rollingstone, Lucinda and Abergowrie.

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.