Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Central Coast and Whitsundays, Central West, Maranoa and Warrego and Central Highlands and Coalfields Forecast Districts.

Issued at 4:17 pm Thursday, 15 October 2026.

Heavy rainfall possible about the Central Coast, severe thunderstorms developing about the southern interior.

Weather Situation: A stalling trough about the Central Coast & Whitsundays district is resulting in an increase in showers and thunderstorms with heavy rainfall possible. Additionally, about the southern interior, a build-up of moisture and instability to the east of inland surface trough is producing severe thunderstorms during the afternoon and evening.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours in parts of the Central Coast and Whitsundays district. Locations which may be affected include Sarina and Collinsville.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds and large hailstones over the next several hours in parts of the Central West, Maranoa and Warrego and Central Highlands and Coalfields districts. Locations which may be affected include Tambo and Augathella.

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.