Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 10:34 am Wednesday, 31 December 2025.

Heavy rainfall may redevelop about the northeast coast later this evening.

Weather Situation: Areas of converging enhanced onshore winds may set up over parts of the northeast coast today, more likely later this evening and overnight tonight. These combined with a very humid airmass bring the risk of heavy rainfall.

HEAVY RAINFALL which may lead to FLASH FLOODING is forecast about the coast and adjacent inland areas from about Townsville to Gordonvale, more likely this evening and overnight. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 100 to 180 mm are likely, with isolated falls in excess of 250 mm possible.

A separate Severe Thunderstorm Warning will be issued if very dangerous thunderstorms with intense rainfall are detected.

A separate Severe Weather Warning is current for northwestern Queensland. Flood Watches and Flood Warnings are current for Northern Queensland. Please refer to https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts for more information.

Locations which may be affected include Townsville, Palm Island, Ingham, Cardwell, Tully and Rollingstone.

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.