Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Central Coast and Whitsundays Forecast District.

Issued at 8:37 pm Wednesday, 18 February 2026.

Heavy rainfall with thunderstorms continue in the central east.

Weather Situation: A trough extending from the Central Coast through to the Gulf Country combines with a humid airmass to trigger slow moving thunderstorms with the risk of heavy rainfall.

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 Sarina.

Separate Flood Watches and/or Warnings are current at the time of issue. Check https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts.

133mm was recorded at Koumala in the 3 hours to 6:30pm.

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.