Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Peninsula, North Tropical Coast and Tablelands, Northern Goldfields and Upper Flinders, Herbert and Lower Burdekin, Central West and Channel Country Forecast Districts.

Issued at 7:13 pm Saturday, 21 February 2026.

Severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall are continuing over northern Queensland this evening.

Weather Situation: Rich tropical moisture is feeding into a low pressure trough, generating slow moving clusters of thunderstorms that are likely producing 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 Winton, Hughenden, Ingham, Palmerville, Gregory Springs and Mareeba.

Severe thunderstorms are no longer occurring in the North West district and the warning for this district is CANCELLED.

46 mm was recorded at Upper Poison Creek in the 30 min to 4:25 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.