SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND

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SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND

for DAMAGING WIND, FLASH FLOODING and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in parts of the

GOLD COAST CITY and

SCENIC RIM Council Areas.

Issued at 6:29 pm Sunday, 13 November 2011.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 6:25 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on weather radar near Rathdowney and the NSW border. These thunderstorms are moving towards the northeast. They are forecast to affect Lamington National Park by 6:40 pm and Springbrook, Numinbah Valley and Laravale by 6:55 pm.

Damaging winds, very heavy rainfall, flash flooding and large hailstones are likely.

A wind gust of 87km/hr was recorded at St George Airport at 5:53pm.

Emergency Management Queensland advises that people should:

* Move your car under cover or away from trees.

* Secure loose outdoor items.

* Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters.

* Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.

* Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm.

* Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.

* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.

The next warning is due to be issued by 7:00 pm.

A more general severe thunderstorm warning is also current for parts of the Maranoa and Warrego, Darling Downs and Granite Belt and Southeast Coast districts.

Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 219. The Bureau and Emergency Management Queensland would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.