Update: Severe weather warning

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Weather Warning for the Southeast Coast of Queensland, including the Moreton Bay Region.

Three Moreton Bay roads are now closed due to flooding: Henry Rd at Griffin, Chermside Rd between John St and Kinsellas Rd West, and Mott St and Strathpine.

It says a low pressure system off the Capricornia coast is forecast to develop further and move south to southeast tonight and through Sunday.

“At this stage, this system is expected to remain just off the Queensland's Southeast Coast, however, some uncertainty exists with its forecast position and track,” the Bureau says.

Heavy rain predicted

Heavy rain, which may lead to flash flooding, is forecast to affect parts of the Wide Bay and Burnett, and Southeast Coast forecast districts from later this evening.

The Bureau says six-hourly rainfall totals between 90 and 150mm are likely, with 24-hourly rainfall totals between 100 and 150mm also likely, and falls up to 300mm possible, most likely about the coast and ranges.

Deception Bay recorded the highest rainfall across the region in the 24 hours to 9am today, with 71mm at Creek Rd, while 65mm of rain was recorded at Caboolture and Beachmere.

Dayboro recorded 55mm, Mt Samson 53mm and Kallangur 57mm.

Earlier

Moreton Bay Region residents are being urged to prepare for storms, with the Bureau of Meteorology issuing a warning that severe weather could affect the region.

The Bureau says the weather may include wind, hail, lightning or heavy rain that could result in flash flooding.

Two roads in the Moreton Bay Region have closed - Chermside Rd between John St and Kinsellas Rd West and Mott St and Strathpine.

Sandbag stations across the region remain open - bring a shovel because you might need to fill your own bags.

The Bureau says a trough or low may develop near the east coast later today, moving south over the next few days.

“The potential for heavy rainfall is linked to the position of the low,” the Bureau says.

“If the low develops and remains well offshore rainfall totals will be reduced but if the low approaches closer to the Queensland coastline the chance for significant rainfall will be enhanced.

“Showers and thunderstorms are likely to increase over the weekend, with a risk of heavy rainfall in severe thunderstorms, and the chance of heavy to intense rainfall over southeast Queensland from Saturday night into Monday if the low or trough moves close to the southeast Queensland coast.”

Possible flash-flooding

There are currently no known road closures in the Moreton Bay Region, but with heavy, locally intense rain extending south across the state’s south-east today and tomorrow, the Bureau says dangerous and life-threatening flash-flooding is possible.

There is also the chance of minor to moderate flooding across the flood watch area, which includes the Pine and Caboolture rivers.

“This Flood Watch means that people living or working along rivers and creeks should monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings,” the Bureau says.

“Remember: If it's flooded, forget it.”

What should you do?

• Move your car under cover or away from trees.
• Secure loose outdoor items.
• Never drive, walk or ride through flood waters. If it's flooded, forget it.
• Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.
• Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm.
• Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.
• For SES flood or storm assistance phone 132 500.

Important contacts and links

• Life threatening emergencies: Triple Zero (000).
• Tune in to your emergency broadcasters: ABC radio 612AM, 101.5FM and 99.7FM
• SES flood or storm assistance: 132 500
• Council: (07) 3205 0555
• Council local road conditions at council's website
• Unitywater: 1300 086 489
• Energex: 13 62 62
• Department of Transport and Main Roads

Moreton Bay Regional Council wants residents to  ensure they're prepared. 

Sing up for the free MoretonAlert app to receive early warnings about severe weather here.

Find more advice about being storm-prepared at moretonbay.qld.gov.au/disaster.