{smsmessage:QLD Severe T'Storm: Heavy Rain. Proserpine, Airlie Beach areas at risk.} Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Central Coast and Whitsundays Forecast District.

Issued at 10:56 pm Tuesday, 17 February 2026.

Heavy rainfall with thunderstorms over northern parts of the Central Coast and Whitsundays.

Weather Situation: Extremely moist and unstable onshore flow will combine with a weak mid level trough to support one or two slow-moving bands of heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms with locally heavy rainfall about northern parts of the Central Coast and Whitsundays.

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 Proserpine and Airlie Beach.

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.