Severe thunderstorm warning for Sunshine Coast

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for South East Queensland with damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding.

Large hailstones are also likely.

Sunshine Coast Local Disaster Management Coordinator Andrew Ryan said the bureau had warned severe thunderstorms had been detected on weather radars near Kilcoy, Mount Kilcoy and the area north of Woodford.

These thunderstorms are moving towards the northeast and are forecast to affect Mount Beerwah, Peachester, Crohamhurst and Maleny by 3.50pm and Beerwah, Landsborough, Montville and Palmwoods by 4.20pm.

Sunshine Coast residents and visitors are also reminded to be prepared, tune into weather warnings and to stay safe over the next 24hrs.

Mr Ryan said the Bureau of Meteorology was predicting a slow moving trough to move across the region over the next 24 hours, possibly delivering heavy rainfall at times from the Sunshine Coast and as far north as Rockhampton.

“Residents and visitors should keep a close eye on the Bureau's forecasts and weather warnings during this period,” Mr Ryan said.

“The bureau is predicting rainfall totals of between 50-100mm over the next 24hrs, with the possibility of heavier isolated falls reaching 200mm.

“The bureau is forecasting ‘thunderstorm clusters’, which have the potential to regenerate on themselves as they move slowly across the region.

“We may see prolonged thunderstorm activity tonight and heavy rainfall on the coast from this afternoon.

“Our roads can be affected by these types of weather events, and often we see our local roads affected by minor flooding before water affects homes, so it is important that you stay informed about local road conditions,” he said.

“Not only can flood waters rise quickly, making travel dangerous, they are an indicator that homes could be impacted if heavy rainfalls than expected occur.”

Mr Ryan urges residents and visitors to be prepared and to tune into weather warnings and to look out for any emergency messages issued.

“If you are driving over the next 24 hours please drive to the conditions, stay safe and be aware that localised flooding can affect road travel.

“If you come across a flooded road, don’t be tempted to drive through the flood water. Remember that driving into flood waters is dangerous”.

“And if it’s flooded -forget it.”

For full information on how to be prepared and to stay informed about current warnings and alerts log onto council’s website:  http://disaster.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises that people should:

\* Move your car under cover or away from trees.

\* Secure loose outdoor items.

\* Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters.

\* Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.

\* Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm.

\* Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.

\* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.

Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 219.

Emergency numbers

• For life threatening emergencies call 000.
• Emergency help in storms and floods SES 132 500
• Bureau of Meteorology Cyclone Advice: 1300 659 212
• Road closures: 131 940
• For ongoing storm updates, tune into your local radio station.

ENDS