Weather expected to be clear and sunny for Christmas, but storms could follow

OUTDOOR barbecues and beach plans are looking good for Christmas Day, with warm temperatures and sunshine expected to hold out.

Amelia Harris, 17, and Tim Clout, 23, enjoying the surf and sun Surfers Paradise beach on Sunday. (### contact 0412 86 974). Picture: JERAD WILLIAMS

OUTDOOR barbecues and beach plans are looking good for Christmas Day, with warm temperatures and sunshine expected to hold out.

Gold Coasters can expect a sunny and warm day on Thursday with temperatures of about 29C.

But Weatherzone meteorologist Kim Westcott warned there could be a late afternoon shower on the day, so pack the picnic basket early.
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Amelia Harris, 17, on the shoulders of Tim Clout, 23, playing in the surf with Zane Harris, 14, on the shoulders of Jake Harris, 19, at Surfers Paradise beach. Picture: JERAD WILLIAMS

“We’re looking at fairly consistent weather conditions until Christmas,” she said.

“Morning temperatures will stay at 20C and maximum temperatures will be stay at 28C throughout the week.”

Amelia Harris, 17, and Tim Clout, 23, were among thousands to enjoy the surf and sun at Surfers Paradise beach yesterday. “We hung out and went for a swim and surf,” Amelia said.

“The weather is so good and it’s really warm so being in the water is the best feeling.

16 month old Indigo Wise gets her gumboots on ready in case it’s a wet Christmas. Photo: Kit Wise

“We’re both surf lifesavers so we’ll be back to patrol on Christmas Day.

“But even when we’re not on patrol, we can’t keep away from the beach,” Amelia said.

Ms Westcott said that the mercury would gradually rise to 30C later in the week with possible thunderstorms ­creeping in.

“There will be isolated showers throughout the week,” she said.