Townsville weather for first week of 2025: Showers, storms forecast

After wild winds and rain knocked Townsville for six on New Year’s Day, forecasters say North Queensland isn’t out of the woods yet with more on the way. See the forecast.

Mick Paulsen of Mount Louisa took this photo of the New Year's Day storm cell from Townsville Airport.

After wild winds and rain knocked Townsville for six on New Year’s Day, forecasters say North Queensland isn’t out of the woods yet with more on the way.

The Bureau of Meteorology predicts possible storms and a 70% chance of rain on Friday, with a chance of showers forecast up to Wednesday, January 8.

Senior meteorologist Angus Hines said storms were expected across the east coast of Queensland on Friday.

“The most widespread and vigorous storms are expected to move out to the east coast particularly between Rockhampton and Cairns, where we could see some severe thunderstorms that may bring heavy rain and flash flooding,” he said.

Storms aren’t expected to continue past Friday, with the sun beginning to come out over the weekend.

Temperatures are predicted to remain relatively the same, maintaining a maximum of 30 to 31 degrees and a minimum of 24 degrees.

While the chance of flooding is low, residents are being reminded to plan ahead in case of emergency.

Townsville Local Disaster management group chair Councillor Andrew Robinson said North Queensland was no stranger to severe weather, but urged preparedness anyway.

North Queensland is set for a rainy start to 2025. Picture: Windy.com

“This is what we call disaster season, it is when we are more likely to get a cyclone. We are more likely to get monsoons in the wet season which can lead to flooding,” Mr Robinson said.

While this week’s storms aren’t expected to be severe, residents are being reminded to plan ahead for potential disasters.

“Prior preparation and planning prevents poor performance,” Mr Robinson said.

“It’s not too late now to start creating your grab bag containing your essential documents, medicines, some food and water, so that in an event where you do need to evacuate, you have your essentials you can grab.

“The main advice is to have a plan.”

In the event of an emergency, residents should call triple-0

Locals are advised to check the forecast before planning outdoor activities.

More information on planning for emergencies can be found on Townsville City Council’s website.

Originally published as Townsville weather for first week of 2025: Showers, storms forecast