Key Takeaways:
- Rain is forecasted across much of Queensland for Christmas, with up to 95 millimeters of rainfall recorded in the past 24 hours in the north-west.
- A flood watch has been issued for the north-west due to a monsoon trough bringing showers and thunderstorms.
- Graziers in outback Queensland are welcoming the rain, as it will help with their livelihoods and bring relief from the heat.
- Severe thunderstorms are also forecasted for the south-east, with potential for heavy rainfall and flash flooding.
- The rain is expected to continue on Christmas Day, with a heatwave warning current for the south-east coast.
Introduction to Queensland’s Christmas Weather
The Christmas forecast for Queensland is looking wet and wild, with rain predicted to fall across much of the state. A band of cloud is stretching across Queensland, bringing with it a high chance of showers and thunderstorms. Senior meteorologist Baden Gilbert stated that "it’s pretty much raining in a lot of places," with rainfall totals of up to 95 millimeters recorded in the past 24 hours in the north-west. This rain is a welcome relief for many, particularly graziers in outback Queensland who have been struggling with the hot and dry conditions.
Flood Watch Issued for North-West Queensland
The weather bureau has issued a flood watch for the north-west of the state, as the monsoon trough brings showers and thunderstorms for the rest of the week. Several rivers are likely to flood, closing roads and isolating communities. Mr. Gilbert warned that "we’re going to see persistent multi-day decent totals across large parts of the north-west of the state." This flooding will have a significant impact on the local communities, with some families forced to change their Christmas plans. However, for many graziers, the rain is a blessing, and they are thrilled to see the skies open up.
Graziers Welcome the Rain
For graziers in outback Queensland, the rain is the best Christmas present they could ask for. Jack Neilson from Two Rivers station, north of Boulia, said that "it’s been flirting with us for about a week … really hot and humid." The rain will bring relief from the heat and help to replenish the parched land. Bob Elliot from Belmont Station near Winton agreed, saying that "it’s the best Chrissie present you can get … our livelihoods depend on it." The rain has already changed his plans, and he will now spend Christmas at home, enjoying the wet weather.
Severe Thunderstorms Forecasted for South-East Queensland
While the north-west is experiencing heavy rain, the south-east is bracing for severe thunderstorms. Meteorologist Mr. Gilbert said that severe thunderstorms are forecasted for today around the Wide Bay Burnett region, Capricornia, Central Highlands, Sunshine Coast, and Gold Coast. The weather bureau has warned of the potential for heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding. Thunderstorms are also possible in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, and Brisbane. Despite the rain, beachgoers on the Gold Coast are not letting it dampen their spirits, and many are still enjoying the beach.
Heatwave Warning for South-East Coast
A heatwave warning is current for the south-east coast, contracting out of the Darling Downs but lingering around Gympie and Kingaroy. This is expected to ease on Boxing Day, but for now, it’s a hot, soggy, and wet Christmas day ahead for most of the state. Mr. Gilbert said that "I reckon if you’re out in Thargomindah, you’ve probably got a nice sunny day on the forecast, or maybe St George or Cunnamulla, even the western downs." However, for the majority of the state, the rain will continue to fall, bringing welcome relief to many.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Christmas forecast for Queensland is looking wet and wild, with rain and thunderstorms predicted to fall across much of the state. While the rain may cause some disruptions, it is a welcome relief for many, particularly graziers in outback Queensland. The severe thunderstorms forecasted for the south-east will bring the potential for heavy rainfall and flash flooding, and a heatwave warning is current for the south-east coast. Despite the weather, many are still making the most of the holiday season, and the rain is bringing a sense of joy and relief to many parts of the state.
