Categories: News & Weather

Isolated Storms Forecast for Queensland After Weekend Hail Storm

Isolated Storms Forecast for Queensland After Weekend Hail Storm

Queensland is set to enjoy more sunny weather this week, but the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) warns that scattered thunderstorms could interrupt the calm in parts of the state. After a weekend of damaging hail, forecasters say the chance of storms remains widespread but uneven, with some regions experiencing dry, warm conditions rather than rainfall.

Storm Warnings and Severe Weather Risk

The BOM issued multiple storm warnings overnight for south-east Queensland as a line of instability moved across the region. Senior meteorologist Angus Hines stressed that while storms are possible daily, they will not blanket the state. “Each afternoon and evening, we see another round where we will likely see storms pop up over large parts of Queensland,” Hines said. He added that the upcoming Monday could see activity stretching from the south-east coast into the interior, reaching the central tablelands and extending to the far west and the Cape York Peninsula.

The journalist-reported risk is described as “slight” for severe thunderstorms in the south-east on Monday afternoon, with large gaps likely between storm cells. In practical terms, many areas could stay fine and predominantly warm and sunny, with only isolated thunderstorm activity and minimal rainfall.

Recent Hail Incident and Local Impacts

Hail ranging from four to six centimetres fell at Bellthorpe, west of the Sunshine Coast, and at Moreton Bay’s Stanmore just after 5pm, causing property damage in some pockets and prompting emergency warnings. While such events are not uncommon during transitional periods, they underscore the volatility of spring weather in the region.

What to Expect This Week

Meteorologists say the weather pattern will tilt back toward average spring temperatures for much of the state later this week. “It’s fair to say the south-east has had a few warm days in the last couple of weeks, but those temperatures are coming down a little bit,” Hines explained. After this cooling phase, warmer temperatures are anticipated to return by next weekend.

In practical terms, most days will feature a mix of sun and patches of cloud, with only isolated thunderstorm activity and little to no widespread rainfall. The type of rain delivered by storms is usually highly localized—some areas could receive between 30 and 50 millimetres in the immediate vicinity of a storm, while surrounding locations stay dry. Across five to seven days, rainfall totals are expected to be modest outside those downpours.

Bushfire Danger and Fire Bans

The ongoing dry spell means bushfire danger remains high in northern parts of the state. Fire bans remain in place across several regions from Townsville to the South Burnett, reflecting the need for vigilance as conditions could deteriorate quickly with any new heat or wind shifts.

Staying Safe: How to Prepare

Residents and visitors should stay weather-aware. Check the BOM radar, follow warnings, and have a plan if storms threaten your area. If you encounter hail, move to a sheltered location and avoid driving in heavy rain or flooded roads. After storms pass, inspect your property for damage and report it to authorities if needed. Even when forecasts indicate a lower chance of rain, isolated cells can still bring dangerous conditions where you live.

Bottom Line

Queensland’s weather remains variable as we move through spring. Although most regions will enjoy sunny and warm conditions, the potential for isolated thunderstorms and a slight risk of severe activity in the south-east means residents should stay alert, monitor BOM updates, and be prepared for sudden changes in weather patterns. The coming days are set to offer a mix of warmth with brief, localized storm events and a continued dry spell that keeps bushfire risk a top concern for northern communities.