Severe thunderstorms, heavy rainfall forecast for multiple states between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve
Millions of Australians are in the firing line of a severe storm belt forecast to affect parts of the Northern Territory, Queensland and NSW, with multiple storm and flood warnings already in place.
The NT and Queensland will experience the worst of the weather, with showers and thunderstorms expected in parts of the state, according to the Bureau of Meteorology’s latest forecast.
Potentially “life-threatening” severe storms and heavy rainfall are forecast for Queensland’s Carpentaria, Barkly and north-west forecast areas.
Storm and flood warnings have also been issued for southeast Queensland.
The bureau has issued flash flood warnings for the Wide Bay and Burnett areas and parts of the Central Highlands and Coalfields.
In NSW, the bureau is warning of “triple risk” in the north-eastern part of the state, including Byron Bay.
This includes damaging winds, large hail and heavy rains.
More heavy rain after Christmas in QLD
Those hoping for a break from the wet weather will be disappointed to hear the forecast is calling for more rain for parts of Queensland.
Areas likely to experience heavy rain and flooding between Christmas and New Year are central and northern Queensland, extending from the central coast to the Gulf of Carpentaria and across the border into the NT.
The Bureau will continue to monitor the formation of storm systems throughout the Christmas period and asks residents of affected areas to remain alert for any further updates or warnings.
