Gold Coast Weather: Rain and thunderstorms expected to hit tonight

Cyclone Owen is slowing down and forecasters now say it won’t reach the Gold Coast. But residents are still being warned to expect thunderstorms over the weekend.

The Gold Coast looks likely to dodge a bullet with forecasters now saying Tropical Cyclone Owen will not travel as far south as previously predicted.

At 5.30pm on Friday Severe Tropical Cyclone Owen was at Category 3 in the Gulf of Carpentaria, due to make landfall in the state’s far north on Saturday.

While experts were expecting the system to reach the Gold Coast by Monday, Bureau of Meteorology Weather Services Manager, Dr Richard Wardle, said Cyclone Owen has slowed down and is now unlikely to unleash on the region.

However the Gold Coast is still in for a wet weekend with heavy rain and thunderstorms predicted from tonight onwards.

Weather experts have warned the rain could cause flash flooding at locations across the Gold Coast.

Heavy rain is expected. Photo: Glenn Hampson

Acting Mayor Donna Gates said now is the time Gold Coasters should get ready for the wet weekend ahead.

“We remain on a watching brief with storms likely across the weekend,” she said.

“Now is the time to ensure your home emergency kit and plan are ready. Being prepared is the best way to ensure your home, family and pets are safe.’’

Weatherzone meteorologist Brett Dutschke also advised Gold Coasters to start preparing and said there “is a good chance for flash flooding.”

“It would be a good idea to start cleaning out gutters as some flash flooding is expected for today and tomorrow,” he said.

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“It looks like we could receive a minimum of 10 to 20mm, but there is potential for 50mm.

“There is an even great potential the hinterland could receive more that than.”

Humidity – which was at about 80 per cent today – is expected to climb to about 90 per cent tonight.

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Storm clouds rolling over the Gold Coast. Photo: David Clark

Mr Dutschke said there could be a severe thunderstorm warning issued tonight and advised residents to follow any warning instructions.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises that people should:

- Move your car under cover or away from trees.

- Secure loose outdoor items.

- Never drive, walk or ride through flood waters. If it’s flooded, forget it.

- Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.

- Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm.

- Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.

- For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.