Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Heavy Rainfall Issued for North West Queensland

Alert Details

The Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning (IDQ21033) for heavy rainfall. This alert is designated as a top priority for immediate broadcast and was issued at 11:00 am Thursday, 26 February 2026.

Affected Areas

The warning applies to residents in parts of the North West Forecast District in Queensland. Specific locations identified as being in the path of the storms include Dajarra and Duchess.

What You Should Do

Emergency services advise people in the warning area to take the following safety measures:

• Seek Shelter: Go inside a strong building now and stay inside until the storm has passed.
• Avoid Travel: Do not drive now unless you have to because conditions are dangerous.
• Protect Property: Park your car undercover and away from trees; close all doors and windows.
• Health & Safety: Keep asthma medications close by, as storms and wind can trigger asthma attacks.
• Power Preparation: Charge mobile phones and power banks in case of power outages.
• Pet Safety: Put your pets somewhere safe and ensure they can be identified if they get lost.
• Communication: Tell friends, family, and neighbors in the area about the current conditions.

Expected Conditions

Slow-moving thunderstorms are currently active in the North West district. These storms are being triggered by convergence associated with a tropical low located in the southeast of the Northern Territory. The primary hazard is heavy rainfall, which is likely to produce flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 11:00 am on Thursday, 26 February 2026. The Bureau of Meteorology is scheduled to provide an updated warning by 2:00 pm.