Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of North Tropical Coast and Tablelands and Peninsula Forecast Districts.

Issued at 9:22 pm Monday, 5 January 2026.

HEAVY RAINFALL has developed in severe thunderstorms in northeast Queensland.

Weather Situation: Severe thunderstorms have developed in an unstable airmass along a trough that is situated along the North Tropical Coast.

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 Hope Vale, Wujal Wujal and Cooktown.

141 mm was recorded in 3 hours to 8:00pm at East Normanby River.

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.