Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of North Tropical Coast and Tablelands and Northern Goldfields and Upper Flinders Forecast Districts.

Issued at 4:19 pm Saturday, 3 January 2026.

Heavy rainfall inland of the North Tropical Coast as well as about the Shire of Flinders.

Weather Situation: Slow moving showers and thunderstorms continuing this afternoon in a very moist tropical airmass.

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 Atherton, Millaa Millaa, Ravenshoe and Babinda.

60 mm of rainfall was recorded at Dutton River in 1 hour to 3:57 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.