BOM issues hailstorm warning from Proserpine to Bundaberg

It’s time to buckle up and be prepared. From Proserpine to Bundaberg, emergency services are advising residents to move their cars indoors in preparation for ‘potentially giant’ hail storm chaos. Here’s what to expect.

The warning zone issued by BOM on October 24 for severe thunderstorms covers most of North and Central Queensland, from Proserpine in the north to Bundaberg in the south. Picture: Bureau of Meteorology

Large hail and wind gusts of more than 80km/hr have been recorded in Central Queensland amid an ongoing dangerous thunderstorm warning for areas from Proserpine to Bundaberg.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe thunderstorm warning on Monday afternoon that included the possibility of “giant hail stones, damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding”.

A Central Queensland resident scooped up a large hail stone at Machine Creek, near Mt Larcom after a severe thunderstorm moved across the region about 3.30pm Monday. Picture: Darren Oakey

“Several surface troughs are extending over Queensland from a low pressure system over northwest Victoria,” the BOM states.

“These troughs are drawing warm, humid air over eastern Queensland leading to favourable conditions for severe thunderstorms.”

In Mount Larcom between Rockhampton and Gladstone, giant hail was recorded while wind gusts of 83km/hr were recorded at Biloela.

The warning zone issued by BOM on October 24 for severe thunderstorms covers most of North and Central Queensland, from Proserpine in the north to Bundaberg in the south. Picture: Bureau of Meteorology

The threat is expected to rise up over the next several hours and locations which may be affected include Bundaberg, Gladstone, Rockhampton, Clermont, Mackay, Yeppoon and Mount Morgan.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises residents to do the following:

• Move your car under cover or away from trees.
• Secure loose outdoor items.
• Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.
• Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm.
• Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.

Flash floods are a risk and QFES advises people to never drive, walk or ride through flood waters.

The next warning is due at 5.35pm.