Source: Bureau of Meteorology

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

Issued at 11:24 pm Wednesday, 19 March 2025.

Heavy rainfall occurring in coastal areas of northeast Queensland between Cairns and Townsville

Weather Situation: An area of slow moving showers and thunderstorms is causing moderate to heavy rainfall over parts of the northeast this evening.

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 Townsville, Ingham, Innisfail, Cardwell, Tully and Lucinda.

146 mm was recorded at Innisfail Airport in the 2 hours to 10:33 pm.

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.