Source: Bureau of Meteorology

For people in parts of Herbert and Lower Burdekin Forecast District.

Issued at 4:58 am Thursday, 12 December 2024.

Severe thunderstorms with intense rainfall developing near Townsville.

Weather Situation: A surface trough positioned over central and northern Queensland has combined with high humidity to produce slow-moving severe thunderstorms.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Townsville, Ayr, Giru, Alva Beach, Woodstock and Clare.

49mm was recorded at Upper Stuart Creek gauge in the 1 hour to 05:00am.

Emergency services advise people to:
* Park your car undercover away from trees.
* Close doors and windows.
* Keep asthma medications close by. Storms and wind can trigger asthma attacks.
* Charge mobile phones and power banks in case the power goes out.
* Put your pets somewhere safe and make sure they can be identified in case they get lost.
* Do not drive now unless you have to because conditions are dangerous.
* Tell friends, family and neighbours in the area.
* Go inside a strong building now. Stay inside until the storm has passed.