Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Herbert and Lower Burdekin and Central Coast and Whitsundays Forecast Districts.

Issued at 9:47 am Monday, 25 December 2023.

Heavy rainfall and possible damaging winds with storms about the Central Coast.

Weather Situation: A strong upper trough moving over southern parts of the state is promoting thunderstorms across a broad area of Queensland. A slow moving cluster of thunderstorms about the Central Coast is producing heavy rainfall and the risk of damaging wind gusts.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Mackay, Proserpine, Bowen, Hamilton Island, Sarina and Ayr.

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.