Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for South East Queensland
Power Master Generators is urging residents across South East Queensland to take immediate precautions following a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Heavy Rainfall issued by the Bureau of Meteorology. At 4:25pm, severe thunderstorms capable of producing intense rainfall and potential flash flooding were detected near Laidley, Pittsworth and the area southwest of Dalby. These systems are tracking northeast and are forecast to impact:
- Toowoomba
- Dalby
- Areas south of Toowoomba
- Gatton
- Areas north and northwest of Toowoomba**
An intense 46mm of rainfall was recorded at Tara Lagoon in just 30 minutes, highlighting the risk of rapid flash flooding in affected regions.
The warning currently applies to parts of:
- Ipswich
- Somerset
- Western Downs
- Toowoomba
- Lockyer Valley
- Scenic Rim
A broader severe thunderstorm warning is also active across parts of the Wide Bay and Burnett, Darling Downs and Granite Belt, and the Southeast Coast districts.
Immediate Safety Advice
Emergency services are advising residents to act now:
- Park vehicles undercover and away from trees
- Close doors and windows securely
- Keep asthma medication nearby, as storms can trigger attacks
- Charge mobile phones and power banks in case of outages
- Secure pets in a safe location and ensure they are identifiable
- Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary
- Inform family, friends and neighbours in affected areas
- Move inside a strong building and remain there until the storm passes
Stay updated via the Bureau of Meteorology website, television and radio broadcasts, or by calling 1300 659 210.
Storms and Power Outages – Be Prepared
Storm systems of this intensity frequently result in:
- Fallen power lines
- Localised blackouts
- Flood-related infrastructure damage
- Extended power interruptions
Power Master Generators strongly encourages households and businesses in vulnerable areas to prepare before outages occur.
Storm Readiness Checklist
- Ensure backup power is available
- Fully charge portable power stations
- Check generator fuel levels
- Store extension leads and lighting equipment safely
- Keep torches and batteries accessible
- Know how to operate your generator safely
Backup power can keep:
- Refrigeration running
- Medical devices operational
- Phones and communication devices charged
- Essential lighting functioning
Preparation reduces stress, prevents loss of food and medication, and keeps your family safer during extreme weather.
Be Prepared. Be Aware. Be Ready.
Severe weather in Queensland can escalate rapidly. Flash flooding and heavy rainfall events often develop with little notice, leaving little time to react once the power goes out.
Power Master Generators remains committed to helping South East Queensland residents stay prepared during storm season. If you are unsure about the right backup solution for your property, seek advice early — not after the outage begins.
Stay safe, follow official emergency guidance, and monitor ongoing warnings.
For the latest updates, visit:
https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts