weathergc.com | Gold Coast Weather Blog | Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

Thank You & Goodnight

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Mon, 01 Jun 2015 07:10:00 +0000

After much consideration, I've decided to step back from weathergc.

I've enjoyed providing updates and volunteering my time - especially during severe weather events. However unless I pay for advertising & promotion out of my own pocket, I'll never reach a wider audience and cannot justify the continued time and expense.

The Facebook page, Twitter account and Blog will remain as an archive, but as of today will be in "offline" mode and will not be monitored or updated.

Please refer to Bureau of Meteorology www.bom.gov.au for all weather and warning information.

Thank you for following, hope to see you sometime again in the future.

Take care, Jeff.

May-day: Severe weather to batter Gold Coast

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Thu, 30 Apr 2015 09:52:00 +0000

Heavy rain totalling 200-400mm, damaging winds up to 90 km/h, dangerous surf with significant beach erosion, and tides 0.5m above normal are set to batter the Gold Coast and south-east Queensland on the first day of May 2015.

A Severe Weather Warning is in place, as a strong upper trough is set to move east into the south-eastern interior of Queensland on Friday and then will move off the southern coast during Saturday.

A surface trough will deepen near Fraser Island during Friday, with a low pressure system most likely developing and slipping southwards over southern Queensland waters during Friday evening and Saturday morning.

A moist wind flow to the south of the surface trough is expected to combine with the upper feature to generate heavy rain, which may lead to flash flooding, over areas southeast of about Hervey Bay to Taroom to Stanthorpe.

HEAVY RAIN:

Whilst most of the rainfall so far today (Thursday) has been to the north, the Gold Coast is going to bear the brunt of the wild weather tomorrow.

Since 9am the highest rainfall so far today was 21mm at Stieglitz Wharf, 14mm at Pacific Pines and 11mm at both Tallebudgera Creek and Springbrook.

Traditionally the heaviest rain associated with an East Coast Low (and Tropical Lows and Cyclones) is towards the south and east of the actual low pressure system.

So whilst the low pressure system is expected to cross southern Queensland waters Friday evening and Saturday morning - the heaviest rainfall for the Gold Coast will come before that after midday Friday - with the following three hourly estimates* from 7pm tonight:

(*This is based on the Surfers Paradise location using the Bureau's Meteye data, where the lowest rainfall figure having a 50% chance of occurring, and the largest figure having a 10% chance)

Rainfall totals of 50-150 mm are forecast over inland catchments, with totals of 200-400 mm over coastal catchments, possibly more locally.

The heavy rain areas should contract southeast during Friday, gradually clearing the Gold Coast during Saturday morning.

DAMAGING WINDS

As the low pressure system and associated offshore surface trough tracks south, strong to gale force winds with possible damaging gusts of up to 90km/h will develop after the heavy rain and now expected to peak around 5-6am Saturday morning.

ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES

The low will also most likely generate large swells as it slips southwards during Friday and early Saturday, with dangerous surf developing about Gold Coast beaches.

Water levels in these areas could exceed the highest tide of the year by around half a metre on Friday evening's high tide.

The dangerous surf conditions are likely to produce significant beach erosion for these areas during Friday and early Saturday.

FLOOD WATCH

A flood watch is in effect which includes all Gold Coast catchments (Nerang River, Coomera River, Albert River and Gold Coast creeks).

River level rises above the minor flood level are possible, particularly over the coastal catchments. Heavy rainfall may also lead to localised flash flooding.

LOCAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT

The City of Gold Coast Disaster Management Unit is monitoring weather reports and everyone is urged to be aware of the likelihood of flash flooding.

With predicted heavy rainfall, roads may need to be closed. Information on road closures can be found at www.qldalert.com or 131940.

Severe weather and flash floods are a dangerous reality of coastal living.

BE PREPARED, NOT SCARED

If you do need assistance, here are some essential contact numbers

For any life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For assistance with flooding or storm emergencies, call the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500
For emergencies such as powerlines down, call Energex on 13 19 62
For loss of power supply, call Energex on 13 62 62
For issues with your water or sewerage service, call City of Gold Coast on 1300 000 928
For issues with local roads, stormwater or parks, call City of Gold Coast on 1300 465 326
For road closure information, call 13 19 40

News Roundup - Apri 29 2015

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Wed, 29 Apr 2015 05:18:00 +0000

Queenslanders warned to brace for heavy rain as potential east coast low develops - ABC News
South-east Queensland is set for a wet end to the week according to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), with more than 300mm falls possible in coastal areas.

East Coast Lows: NSW one week, QLD the next?

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Sun, 26 Apr 2015 10:20:00 +0000

After New South Wales copped wild weather last week thanks to an East Coast Low (ECL), another is likely to develop towards the end of this week - and could be headed our way.

Current forecast models are predicting that another East Coast Low will form near the southern Queensland coast and we'll start feeling the affects as early as Wednesday. By Friday night or early Saturday morning, the low will be at it's strongest and is likely to affect coastal areas in south-east Queensland and/or north-east New South Wales.

The below image is a composite of the current Weather and Wave maps (MSLP and Precipitation) for Thursday through to Sunday, showing the predicted 6-hourly rainfall estimates over the 4 day period.

Significant rainfall is forecast, with estimates currently predicting up to 150-200mm in total, starting around Wednesday and getting heavier into the weekend.

Damaging winds and dangerous surf conditions are also common with ECL's, with strong to gale force winds possible and affecting exposed coastal areas and higher elevations.

At this stage these predictions or forecasts could change considerably including where/when any areas are affected. We'll do our best to let you know of what's happening, also keep an eye out for any Bureau of Meteorology warnings and advice.

EAST COAST LOWS

Here's some handy information from one of our earlier blog posts in 2010:

What is an East Coast Low (ECL)?:

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, East Coast Lows are intense low-pressure systems which occur on average several times each year off the eastern coast of Australia, in particular southern Queensland, NSW and eastern Victoria. Although they can occur at any time of the year, they are more common during Autumn and Winter with a maximum frequency in June ... and will often intensify rapidly overnight. East Coast Lows are also observed off the coast of Africa and America and are sometimes known as east coast cyclones. (Source: BOM)

What's the difference between an East Coast Low and a Tropical Cyclone?

Tropical Cyclones develop over very warm tropical waters where the sea surface temperature is greater than 26°C. They have relatively long life cycles, typically about a week, and severe tropical cyclones (category 3 or greater) can produce significant property damage with wind speeds over 180km/h near the centre, heavy rainfall and coastal inundation through storm surge.

East Coast Lows generally have much shorter lifetimes than Tropical Cyclones and last only a few days. They develop over the Tasman Sea close to the coast and can intensify rapidly in the overnight period. Unlike Tropical Cyclones, where the warm seas provide the energy source, East Coast Lows are driven by the temperature gradient between the Tasman Sea air and cold air in the high levels of the atmosphere over the continent.

They can produce gale to storm-force winds, very heavy rainfall and in some cases coastal inundation. While maximum wind speeds recorded are lower than in severe tropical cyclones, a gust of 165 km/h was recorded at Newcastle associated with the east coast low that sunk the bulk carrier Sygna in 1974. During the first of the ECLs in June 2007, when the bulk carrier Pasha Bulker ran aground, gusts of 105 km/h at 6:21am on 8 June and 124 km/hr at 1:32am on 9 June were recorded at Newcastle. (Source: BOM)

When did the last major East Coast Low affect the Gold Coast?

For those of you on the Gold Coast last year on May 20th 2009, an intense East Coast Low produced heavy rain and strong winds resulting in flooding, large seas and storm damage across the south-east corner, with a man killed by flying debris in Surfers Paradise whilst he sat in his office.

From The Weather Chaser's (http://www.theweatherchaser.com) impressive and extensive archive of BOM Radar images, we can go back in time to view what was actually on the radar and view as an entire loop between 18th May 2009 to 22nd May 2009.

Picture 1 below from the 128km Mt Staplyton (Brisbane) Radar Loop shows the intesity of the rainfall leading up to the the May 20th event. Whilst technically not a 'cyclone' within the images, a rotating circular formation (similar to an eye of a cyclone) can be seen crossing the Sunshine Coast around 10:30am heading south through Brisbane around 11-11:30am with the leading edge of the circular formation passing through the Gold Coast between midday and 2pm.

Picture 2 below from the 128km Mt Staplyton (Brisbane) Doppler Wind Loop shows the most intense, strongest winds crossing near Southport and Surfers Paradise at around 2-3pm when the southern edge of the 'circular formation' crosses the Gold Coast. Similar to Tropical Cyclones, the southern front is generally the strongest and most damaging when it comes to winds.

Picture 1: 128km Radar Loop for Brisbane Radar
for May 18th-22nd 2009
(Source: theweatherchaser.com)

Picture 2: 128km Doppler Wind Loop for Brisbane Radar
for May 20th 2009 between 10am-8pm
(Source: theweatherchaser.com)

An excellent, detailed explanation of how this particular East Coast Low formed, along with photo's and video's of it's effects can be found at the coastalwatch.com website.

Other major East Coast Lows in recent history that have affected the Gold Coast include:

the June 2005 event which caused localised flooding and landslips at Currumbin Hill
the March 2004 event which caused localised flooding and widespread power outages

Ex-TC Marcia: When will she impact the Gold Coast?

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Sat, 21 Feb 2015 00:23:00 +0000

8:50pm Update: Ex-tropical cyclone Marcia continues to move off the southeast Queensland coast with the heaviest rain bypassing most of the Gold Coast. However the possibility for damaging winds and dangerous surf conditions remain.

KEY POINTS

8:50PM Update:

Severe Weather Warning updated at 6:05pm, heavy rain no longer threat.
Possibility of damaging winds, and dangerous surf remains
Wind forecast no longer predicting near-gale strength winds
Locally damaging wind gusts to 90km/hr still possible about the elevated ground of the southern border ranges this evening and at times on Sunday. Locations which may be affected include Springbrook.
Large and powerful surf conditions are expected to persist about the Gold Coast beaches into Sunday, and may become dangerous once again by late Sunday as the low deepens.

1:30PM Update:

Severe Weather Warning updated at 1:22pm, destructive winds and abnormally high tides no longer threat.
The remnants of ex-TC Marcia continues to move off the SEQ coast over North Stradbroke Island in a South-Easterly direction
Heaviest rain band has gone out to sea, bypassing most of Gold Coast.

1:10PM Update:

Severe Thunderstorm Warning cancelled at 1:04pm, however Severe Weather Warning remains current.

12:30PM Update:

Severe Storm warning issued at 11:53am for destructive winds and heavy rain at Jacobs Well, South Stradbroke Island and waters by 12:50pm

10:30am:

Marcia downgraded to tropical low at 1:55am
Gold Coast to expect the heaviest rain today between 10am to 4pm, contracting off the coast by late afternoon
Totals of up to 100-150mm expected across the Gold Coast, up to 250mm in the hinterland.
Locally damaging to destructive wind gusts are possible within the approaching rain band.
A waterspout was also observed in this band of heavy rainfall near Mooloolabah, which reportedly moved over land and caused some damage to buildings in the area.
Gold Coast to expect the strongest winds tonight around 10pm through to midnight
Seven Gold Coast SES crews are working today, attending 28 outstanding jobs received yesterday.
Beaches are holding up well, minor sand scarping at Kirra
City of Gold Coast Local Disaster Management Group will remain activated to monitor predicted heavy rainfall

Original Post:

Whilst Marcia was downgraded to a tropical low early this morning (1:55am), she still poses a real threat with severe weather conditions of destructive winds, heavy rainfall, abnormally high tides and dangerous surf.

At 10:00am, ex-tropical cyclone Marcia was located to the southwest of Gympie and moving in a southeastwards direction. A band of heavy rainfall, which may lead to flash flooding, with damaging to potentially destructive winds was situated across Bribie Island and far southern parts of the Sunshine Coast and adjacent hinterland areas.

In the 2 hours to 10:00am, 127mm of rainfall has been recorded at Elimbah (near Caboolture). A waterspout was also observed in this band of heavy rainfall near Mooloolabah, which reportedly moved over land and caused some damage to buildings in the area.

HEAVY RAINFALL

Three hour rainfall totals of up to 100mm were observed earlier this morning near ex-tropical cyclone Marcia, and are possible as it continues to move southwards.

Ex-tropical cyclone Marcia, and its rainfall should continue moving to the south-southeast today, producing a period of heavy rainfall lasting two to four hours over the remaining parts of the Southeast coast forecast district.

This should be followed by a rapid clearance, with the heavy rain contracting off the Gold Coast by late afternoon.

Forecast Rainfall Map (3 hourly)
21-22 February 2015 (as at 10:30am)

DAMAGING TO DESTRUCTIVE WIND GUSTS

There is still the chance of some damaging gusts of about 90 km/hr within the warning area, and some locally destructive gusts of around 125 km/hr over parts of the Southeast Coast district today.

Forecast Wind Map (3 hourly)
21-22 February 2015 (as at 10:30am)

The Gold Coast should expect the strongest winds around 10pm through to midnight, which is likely to be after the heaviest rain has pass (similar to ex-TC Oswald in January 2013).

However locally damaging to destructive wind gusts are possible within the approaching rain band. Separate severe thunderstorm warnings will be issued to highlight the areas where the locally destructive winds are possible.

BEACHES, TIDES AND SURF:

Water levels on the high tide are likely to be near or to exceed the highest tide of the year in exposed coastal areas today between Burrum Heads and Coolangatta. Dangerous surf and beach erosion is also expected on exposed beaches today between Sandy Cape and Coolangatta.

Tide predictions at Gold Coast Seaway

LDMG prepared for heavy rainfall

The City of Gold Coast Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) will remain activated to monitor predicted heavy rainfall today as a result of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Marcia. The weather system remains unpredictable and the LDMG is planning for a range of possibilities.

Little Nerang Dam is at capacity and spilling. Tallebudgera Creek Dam has been inspected this morning and is performing satisfactorily. The Loders Creek and Biggera Creek Dams should remain below spill level. The Hinze Dam level is currently sitting at 1.8 meters below the spillway and based on predicted rainfall, is unlikely to spill.

All Gold Coast beaches remain closed today. Residents are urged to stay away from the water. Debris is now washing out from Currumbin and Tallebudgera Creek.

The high tide is expected at 10am this morning, which is close to the highest of the year. The City’s beaches are holding up well. Minor sand scarping at Kirra is still evident but has not encroached any further into the dune areas. As usual, engineers will continue to monitor beaches and are prepared to respond to public safety concerns and damage.

Several roads closed yesterday have now been reopened. However, with predicted heavy rainfall today more roads may need to be closed. Information on road closures can be found at www.qldalert.com.

The City’s Maintenance crews have been working to remove several fallen trees, repair potholes and unblock drains.

Seven Gold Coast SES crews are working today, attending 28 outstanding jobs received yesterday.

BE PREPARED, NOT SCARED

If you do need assistance, here are some essential contact numbers
For any life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For assistance with flooding or storm emergencies, call the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500
For emergencies such as powerlines down, call Energex on 13 19 62
For loss of power supply, call Energex on 13 62 62
For issues with your water or sewerage service, call City of Gold Coast on 1300 000 928
For issues with local roads, stormwater or parks, call City of Gold Coast on 1300 465 326
For road closure information, call 13 19 40
For information and assistance about the event, call the City Disaster Hotline on 1800 606 000.

Residents needing information on road closures should visit qldalert.com.

Un-easy calm as weakening Marcia heads for Gold Coast

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Fri, 20 Feb 2015 10:27:00 +0000

Although rain has eased across the Gold Coast this evening, conditions are expected to deteriorate again during Saturday as a weakening Marcia moves into southeast Queensland.

Cyclone Marcia Track map and Forecast Wind
as at 7pm, Friday 20 February 2015

Tropical Cyclone Marcia, which made landfall as a Category 5 cyclone at Shoalwater Bay has left a trail of destruction over Yeppoon and Rockhampton.

At time of posting, Marcia has weakened to a category 1 cyclone, and is expected to weaken below cyclone strength tonight.

The trough - which is what actually brought the rain to the Gold Coast today - has moved south of the border resulting in the temporary easing of wet conditions across the region this evening.

The approach of what will be ex-cyclone Marcia on Saturday will bring severe weather conditions producing heavy rain and locally damaging winds gusts along with abnormally high tides and dangerous surf. A Severe Weather Warning remains in effect along with a Flood Watch for possible riverine flooding

When will it rain? Check the latest 3-hourly detailed forecast.

The main rainfall areas at this stage is expected to be near coastal areas again with some possible 24 hour rainfall totals during Saturday in excess of 300mm. Damaging wind gusts may reach around 90 km/hr, mostly near the coast and ranges.

Saturday's Forecast Rainfall

The City of Gold Coast Local Disaster Management Group is tracking the progress of the severe weather, and engineers are regularly updating flood modelling based on the latest Bureau of Meteorology data. Modelling shows some minor localised flooding in parts of the city but no threat of major flooding.

Little Nerang Dam is the only local dam spilling but this is not expected to cause major impact. Other City dams including Biggera, Loder and Tallebudgera are below emergency trigger levels.

The highest rainfall across the coast so far today (since 9am to 7pm) includes 131mm at Upper Springbrook, 73mm at Neranwood and 63mm at Pacific Pines.

Rainfall since 9am (to 7pm)
Friday 20 February 2015

Engineers are also closely monitoring the possibility of storm surge. There has been no major erosion or scarping along Gold Coast beaches. A stockpile of sand and heavy equipment is on standby to assist with replenishment if necessary.

The SES has received 84 jobs today with 13 completed. Volunteers were providing sandbags from outside the State Emergency Service depot at Southport again today.

All Gold Coast beaches are closed and are unlikely to open again until at least Sunday due to continuing dangerous surf conditions. Some facilities including City pools and waste facilities are closed due to safety concerns as a result of the severe weather.

BE PREPARED, NOT SCARED

If you do need assistance, here are some essential contact numbers

For any life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For assistance with flooding or storm emergencies, call the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500
For emergencies such as powerlines down, call Energex on 13 19 62
For loss of power supply, call Energex on 13 62 62
For issues with your water or sewerage service, call City of Gold Coast on 1300 000 928
For issues with local roads, stormwater or parks, call City of Gold Coast on 1300 465 326
For road closure information, call 13 19 40
For information and assistance about the event, call the City Disaster Hotline on 1800 606 000.

Residents needing information on road closures should visit qldalert.com.

20/02 Road Closures (7pm Update)

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Fri, 20 Feb 2015 02:39:00 +0000

As at 7:00pm, 131940.qld.gov.au reporting the following road incidents across the Gold Coast (check website for latest information):

Closed to all vehicles/through traffic due to flooding:

CLAGIRABA ROAD, CLAGIRABA
Clagiraba Road between Beaudesert Nerang Road and Gerara Court

CURRUMBIN CREEK ROAD, CURRUMBIN VALLEY

between Dolans Crossing and end of Currumbin Valley Road

BIRDS ROAD, GUANABA
Birds Road between Equestrian Drive and Abbott Court

GOLD COAST SPRINGBROOK ROAD, NUMINBAH VALLEY
At Austinville Causeway (Mudgeeraba Creek)

SOMERSET DRIVE, MUDGEERABA
Somerset Drive between Franklin Drive and Bonogin Road

HARDYS ROAD, MUDGEERABA

TREES ROAD, TALLEBUDGERA
Trees Road between Kooringal Court and Ducats Road

DALTON ROAD, TALLEBUDGERA VALLEY
Daltons Road between Tallebudgera Creek Road and end

MOUNT COUGAL ROAD, TALLEBUDGERA VALLEY

Between Tallebudgera Creek Rd and END

TALLEBUDGERA CREEK ROAD, TALLEBUDGERA VALLEY
Tallebudgera Creek road between Dickfos Road and end

HOTHAM CREEK ROAD, WILLOW VALE
Hotham Creek Road between Fern Hill Drive & Rosemount Drive

RUFFLES ROAD, WILLOW VALE

Ruffles Road between #307 to end of road

Water over road hazard:

GUANABA CREEK ROAD, GUANABA
Hazard Water over road Road Closed Between Maudsland Road and Stewart Road All directions
Delays expected

SIGANTO DRIVE, HELENSVALE
At Saltwater Creek crossing

BERRIGANS ROAD, MUDGEERABA
Road Closed between Gold Coast Springbrook Road and Mark Way All directions

FRANKLIN DRIVE, MUDGEERABA
All directions

GUNSYND DRIVE, MUDGEERABA
Hazard Water over road Road Closed Between Appaloosa Court and Todman Drive All directions

OLD COACH ROAD, TALLEBUDGERA

TALLEBUDGERA CONNECTION ROAD, TALLEBUDGERA
North of Guineas Creek Rd, South of Guineas Creek Rd near Statz Crt

20/02 School closures

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Thu, 19 Feb 2015 21:51:00 +0000

The following schools on or close to the Gold Coast are reported as closed today (Friday 20 February 2015):

AB Patterson
Ashmore State School
Beechmont State School
Currumbin Valley State School
Pimpama State Primary College
Pimpama State Secondary College
Tamborine Mt State School
Tamborine Mountain College
Silkwood
Somerset College
St Hilda’s

Full updated list available on the DETA website or check with your school.

The hatches are battened, Marcia gets stronger

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Thu, 19 Feb 2015 11:40:00 +0000

MTSAT Colourized Infrared

Satellite Image

8:33pm Thu 19 Feb 2015

The Gold Coast spent today waiting in long queues for sandbags and battening down for 2015's most severe weather event, whilst Severe Tropical Cyclone Marcia is expected to make landfall on the central Queensland coast as a very destructive Category 5 cyclone.

Check out our latest post for the most up-to-date info!

Severe Tropical Cyclone Marcia lies over the Coral Sea approximately 160km east northeast of Mackay. The cyclone is expected to turn more southwest during the next few hours and make landfall between Mackay and Gladstone early on Friday as a Category 5 cyclone. A trough extends southwards from the tropical cyclone near the Wide Bay and southeast Queensland coasts.

Forecast Track Map as at 8:04pm

Whilst TC Marcia doesn't pose a direct threat to the Gold Coast, the swell she is generating along with bringing a trough into the southeast of the State, a Severe Weather Warning remains in effect for damaging winds, heavy rainfall, abnormally high tides and dangerous surf, along with a Flood Watch for riverine flooding (a copy of warnings at bottom of this post).

Resident line up for sandbags at Southport SES earlier today

Mayor Tom Tate urged the Gold Coast not to panic, as concerned residents lined-up for sand bags provided by the State Emergency Service at Southport.

“What I say to you is about midnight tonight is really when most of the potential major rain will occur and 10pm the next day."

HEAVY RAINFALL

When will it rain? Check the latest 3-hourly detailed forecast.

Widespread rainfall totals of 200-400mm are still forecast, with some 24 hour totals possibly in excess of 300mm. The heaviest rainfall is expected to fall within coastal catchments. The heaviest rainfall is expected to fall within coastal catchments.

Forecast Rainfall for 20-22 Feb 2015

RIVERINE FLOODING

Heavy rainfall associated with the trough is forecast to affect catchments between Rockhampton and the NSW border from tonight through to Saturday.

River level rises above the minor flood level are expected. Catchments at risk within the Flood Watch area include the Albert and Gold Coast rivers and creeks.

A Flood Watch means that people living or working along rivers and creeks should monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop.

Heavy rainfall may also lead to localised flash flooding.

DAMAGING WINDS

Damaging winds gusts of up to 90 km/hr are possible starting tonight into Friday (mostly near the coast and ranges) with sustained winds of 30 to 45 km/hr.

ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES

This morning a 2.17m king tide scarped beaches at Kirra, and more 2m king tides are expected Friday.

LOCAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT

City of Gold Coast Local Disaster Management Centre is now up and running to monitor the event. For further information, you can contact the Disaster Hotline on 1800 606 000.

BE PREPARED, NOT SCARED

If you do need assistance, here are some essential contact numbers

For any life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For assistance with flooding or storm emergencies, call the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500
For emergencies such as powerlines down, call Energex on 13 19 62
For loss of power supply, call Energex on 13 62 62
For issues with your water or sewerage service, call City of Gold Coast on 1300 000 928
For issues with local roads, stormwater or parks, call City of Gold Coast on 1300 465 326
For road closure information, call 13 19 40

SEVERE WEATHER WARNING

for DESTRUCTIVE WINDS, HEAVY RAINFALL, ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES and DANGEROUS SURF

For people in the
Southeast Coast and parts of the
Wide Bay and Burnett and
Darling Downs and Granite Belt Forecast Districts.

Issued at 6:00 pm Thursday, 19 February 2015.

Synoptic Situation:
Severe Tropical Cyclone Marcia lies over the Coral Sea approximately 160km east northeast of Mackay. The cyclone is expected to turn more southwest during the next few hours and make landfall between Mackay and Gladstone early on Friday as a category 4 cyclone. A trough extends southwards from the tropical cyclone near the Wide Bay and southeast Queensland coasts.

Heavy rain and locally damaging wind gusts are possible from the coast to the ranges between Double Island Point and Brisbane, extending to the state's southern border and the eastern Darling Downs and southern Burnett later tonight and Friday. The heavy rain may lead to flash flooding, with some 24 hour totals possibly in excess of 300mm. Damaging wind gusts may reach around 90 km/hr, mostly near the coast and ranges.

Water levels on the high tide are likely to exceed the highest tide of the year from today. Dangerous surf conditions and beach erosion are also expected on exposed beaches.

Riverine flooding:
A flood watch is current for the Wide Bay and Burnett, Southeast Coast and the Darling Downs & Granite Belt District forecast districts.

A Tropical Cyclone Warning is current for areas between Bowen and Double Island Point.Tropical Cyclone Watch is current for adjacent inland areas between Bundaberg and Double Island Point.

Locations which may be affected include Warwick, Gold Coast, Toowoomba, the Lockyer Valley, Ipswich, Brisbane, Caboolture, the Sunshine Coast, Kingaroy and Gympie.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises that people should:
* Move your car under cover or away from trees.
* Secure loose outdoor items.
* Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.
* Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.
* Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters.
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
* Surf Life Saving Australia recommends that you stay out of the water and stay well away from surf-exposed areas.
* Check your property regularly for erosion or inundation by sea water, and if necessary raise goods and electrical items.
* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.

The next warning is due to be issued by 12:00 am Friday.

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 Queensland Fire and Emergency Services would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.

FLOOD WATCH

FOR THE CAPRICORNIA, WIDE BAY & BURNETT, SOUTHEAST COAST AND DARLING DOWNS & GRANITE BELT FORECAST DISTRICTS

Issued at 11:46 am EST on Thursday 19 February 2015

Issue Number: 3

Heavy rainfall associated with a trough is forecast to affect catchments between Rockhampton and the NSW border from Thursday through to Saturday.

Widespread rainfall totals of 200-400 mm are forecast, with locally higher rainfall likely. The heaviest rainfall is expected to fall within coastal catchments. A severe weather warning and tropical cyclone advice are current for parts of the Flood Watch area.

River level rises above the minor flood level are expected.

Heavy rainfall may also lead to localised flash flooding.

Catchments at risk within the Flood Watch area include the Dawson, Calliope, Boyne, Baffle, Kolan, Burnett, Cherwell-Burrum, Mary, Noosa, Maroochy, Mooloolah, Brisbane, Logan, Albert, Gold Coast rivers and creeks, Upper Condamine, Border Rivers and Moonie.

See www.bom.gov.au/qld/warnings/ to view the current flood warnings for Queensland.

This Flood Watch means that people living or working along rivers and creeks should monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop.

See www.bom.gov.au/qld/flood/brochures/flood_watch/ for further information about Flood Watch.

Remember: If it's flooded, forget it.

For flood emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.

For life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Current emergency information is available at www.disaster.qld.gov.au .

When will it rain?

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 22:38:00 +0000

UPDATE 10:20PM 20/02: Here's the view of the 3-hourly rainfall breakdown across a variety of Gold Coast locations.

3-hourly rainfall forecast

as at 10:20PM, 20 February 2015

Check out our latest post for the most up-to-date info!

From the Bureau's MetEye™ Detailed 3-Hourly forecast, the heaviest falls are expected in the 1pm-4pm period tomorrow, with falls higher towards the southern Gold Coast.

The Severe Weather Warning remains in effect for damaging winds, heavy rainfall, abnormally high tides and dangerous surf, along with a Flood Watch for riverine flooding

Cyclone Marcia! Marcia! Marcia! is born

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 11:48:00 +0000

7:00pm 19/02 UPDATE: Severe Tropical Cyclone Marcia now a Category 4 storm and expected to make landfall as a very destructive Category 5 cyclone. See the Cyclone Warning for more info.

Check out our latest post for the most up-to-date info!

4:04pm 19/02 UPDATE: Severe Tropical Cyclone Marcia now a Category 3 storm and expected to make landfall as a Category 4 cyclone. See the Cyclone Warning for more info.

Original post: As the Gold Coast prepares for what will likely be it's worst weather for 2015, the low pressure system in the Coral Sea has developed into a Category 1 tropical cyclone called 'Marcia', and is slowly strengthening as she continues to head for the central Queensland coast.

TC Marcia is currently located approximately 760 km northeast of Yeppoon and 850 km north-northeast of Bundaberg, and is heading southwest at 22 km per hour.

TC Marcia is expected make to landfall between St Lawrence and Hervey Bay early on Friday. Marcia is expected to slowly intensify, with a high chance of reaching Category 2 intensity by landfall.

MTSAT Colourized Infrared Satellite Image
7:33pm Wed 18 Feb 2015

Forecast Track Map as at 8:04pm

HEAVY RAINFALL

When will it rain? Check the latest 3-hourly detailed forecast.

Widespread rainfall totals of 200-400mm are forecast, with locally higher rainfall likely. The heaviest rainfall is expected to fall within coastal catchments.

RIVERINE FLOODING

Heavy rainfall associated with the trough is forecast to affect catchments between Rockhampton and the NSW border from Thursday through to Saturday.

River level rises above the minor flood level are expected. Catchments at risk within the Flood Watch area include the Albert and Gold Coast rivers and creeks.

A Flood Watch means that people living or working along rivers and creeks should monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop.

Heavy rainfall may also lead to localised flash flooding.

DAMAGING WINDS

Damaging winds gusts of up to 90 km/hr are now expected to develop a little earlier (during Thursday night into Friday), and mostly near the coast and ranges.

ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES

The highest tide of the year of 1.84m is tomorrow morning at 8:31am, with another high tide of 1.81m on Friday at 9:16am.

Water levels on the high tides from Thursday are likely to exceed the 1.84m maximum causing tidal flooding in the usual low-lying areas of Budds Beach and Boykambil (Hope Island).

DANGEROUS SURF

Dangerous surf conditions and significant beach erosion are also expected from Thursday.

Beaches from Burleigh to the Gold Coast Seaway were closed today, and with conditions expected to worsen tomorrow and Friday, it's expected all Gold Coast beaches will be closed.

LOCAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT

Whilst the City of Gold Coast Local Disaster Management Centre is now up and running to monitor the event. For further information, you can contact the Disaster Hotline on 1800 606 000.

BE PREPARED, NOT SCARED

If you do need assistance, here are some essential contact numbers

For any life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For assistance with flooding or storm emergencies, call the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500
For emergencies such as powerlines down, call Energex on 13 19 62
For loss of power supply, call Energex on 13 62 62
For issues with your water or sewerage service, call City of Gold Coast on 1300 000 928
For issues with local roads, stormwater or parks, call City of Gold Coast on 1300 465 326
For road closure information, call 13 19 40

SEVERE WEATHER WARNING

for DESTRUCTIVE WINDS, HEAVY RAINFALL, ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES and DANGEROUS SURF

For people in the
Capricornia,
Wide Bay and Burnett,
Southeast Coast and parts of the
Darling Downs and Granite Belt Forecast Districts.

Issued at 5:33 pm Wednesday, 18 February 2015.

Synoptic Situation:
A tropical low pressure system lies over the Coral Sea approximately 900km north northeast of Bundaberg. The low is expected to develop into a tropical cylone as it moves southwestwards towards the Queensland east coast, and forecast to cross the Capricornia coast early on Friday as a category 2 cyclone. A trough will extend southwards from the low/cyclone, and will move onto the Capricornia, Wide Bay and southeast Queensland coasts during Thursday.

St Lawrence to Double Island Point:
Thunderstorms are expected to develop near the trough early on Thursday morning, and are likely to move onto the coast between St Lawrence and Hervey Bay during Thursday morning. These thunderstorms may produce localised areas of destructive wind gusts in excess of 125 km/hr about coastal and island communities.

A Tropical Cyclone Warning is current from Sarina to Double Island Point, with a Watch current for the adjacent inland areas from Yeppoon to Double Island Point. Please refer to the Tropical Cyclone Track Map and Tropical Cyclone Advice for further details.

Double Island Point to the NSW border:
Heavy rain and locally damaging wind gusts are possible from the coast to the ranges between Double Island Point and Brisbane from Thursday, extending to the state's southern border and into the eastern Darling Downs during Thursday night into Friday. The heavy rain may lead to flash flooding, with some 24 hour totals in excess of 300mm likely. Damaging wind gusts may reach around 90 km/hr, mostly near the coast and ranges.

Water levels on the high tide are likely to exceed the highest tide of the year between Double Island Point and the Gold Coast from Thursday. Dangerous surf conditions and beach erosion are also expected on exposed beaches south of Double Island Point.

Riverine flooding:
A flood watch is current for the Capricornia, Wide Bay and Burnett, Southeast Coast and the Darling Downs & Granite Belt District forecast districts.

Locations which may be affected include Warwick, Gold Coast, Toowoomba, the Lockyer Valley, the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Caboolture, Ipswich, Gympie, Bundaberg, Gladstone, and Rockhampton.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises that people should:
* Move your car under cover or away from trees.
* Secure loose outdoor items.
* Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.
* Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.
* Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters.
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
* Surf Life Saving Australia recommends that you stay out of the water and stay well away from surf-exposed areas.
* Check your property regularly for erosion or inundation by sea water, and if necessary raise goods and electrical items.
* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.

The next warning is due to be issued by 11:35 pm.

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 Queensland Fire and Emergency Services would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.

FLOOD WATCH

FOR THE CAPRICORNIA, WIDE BAY & BURNETT, SOUTHEAST COAST AND DARLING DOWNS & GRANITE BELT FORECAST DISTRICTS

Issued at 11:54 am EST on Wednesday 18 February 2015

Issue Number: 2

Heavy rainfall associated with a trough is forecast to affect catchments between Rockhampton and the NSW border from Thursday through to Saturday.

Widespread rainfall totals of 200-400 mm are forecast, with locally higher rainfall likely. The heaviest rainfall is expected to fall within coastal catchments. A severe weather warning and tropical cyclone advice are current for parts of the Flood Watch area.

River level rises above the minor flood level are expected.

Heavy rainfall may also lead to localised flash flooding.

Catchments at risk within the Flood Watch area include the Dawson, Calliope, Boyne, Baffle, Kolan, Burnett, Cherwell-Burrum, Mary, Noosa, Maroochy, Mooloolah, Brisbane, Logan, Albert, Gold Coast rivers and creeks, Upper Condamine, Border Rivers and Moonie.

See www.bom.gov.au/qld/warnings/ to view the current flood warnings for Queensland.

This Flood Watch means that people living or working along rivers and creeks should monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and be ready to move to higher ground should flooding develop.

See www.bom.gov.au/qld/flood/brochures/flood_watch/ for further information about Flood Watch.

Remember: If it's flooded, forget it.

For flood emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.

For life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Current emergency information is available at www.disaster.qld.gov.au .

Sandbags! Get your sandbags!

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 03:26:00 +0000

12:00pm 20/02 UPDATE: The Gold Coast SES at 195 Queen St, Southport are continuing to provide sandbags today (Friday) until 6pm and limiting to 12 per vehicle.

They are likely to be "FIY" (fill it yourself) bags, so bring your own shovel just in case!

As demand is high, there are long delays. Before heading off check with the SES on 132 500 or the City of Gold Coast Disaster Hotline on 1800 606 000 to see if they've got any left.

PREVIOUS UPDATES:

4:30pm UPDATE: The Gold Coast SES at 195 Queen St, Southport are continuing to provide sandbags today until 6pm and limiting to 12 per vehicle.

They are likely to be "FIY" (fill it yourself) bags, so bring your own shovel just in case!

As demand is high, there are long delays. Before heading off check with the SES on 132 500 or the City of Gold Coast Disaster Hotline on 1800 606 000 to see if they've got any left.

8:30am UPDATE: The Gold Coast SES at 195 Queen St, Southport are continuing to provide sandbags today between 8am to 6pm to residents who need them.

(Thanks to ABC Gold Coast for tweeting this info @abcgoldcoast)

9:30pm 18/02 UPDATE: The Gold Coast SES at Southport are providing sandbags this evening to residents who need them, They can be collected from 195 Queen St, Southport

(Thanks to Cr Glenn Tozer for tweeting this info @GlennontheGC)

As demand is high, before heading off check with the SES on 132 500 or the City of Gold Coast Disaster Hotline on 1800 606 000 to see if they've got any left.

EARLIER: The State Emergency Service depot at Carrara were providing "FIY" (fill it yourself) sandbags for residents of private properties today (Wednesday 18 Feb) until 6pm.

They are located on Eastlakes St at Carrara off exit 75 (near the City of Gold Coast depot).

Bring your own shovel and the SES will have bags and sand available for you to fill your own sandbags.

As this situation is being monitored closely, the availability of sand and bags along with opening hours may change. Contact the SES on 132500 to check.

Severe weather warning issued, local disaster group on alert

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Tue, 17 Feb 2015 14:05:00 +0000

MTSAT Colourized Infrared
Satellite Image
8:33pm Tue 17 Feb 2015

The Gold Coast is now facing a quadruple threat on Thursday and Friday from damaging winds, heavy rainfall, abnormally high tides and dangerous surf as the low pressure system in the Coral Sea deepens and moves closer to Queensland.

Check out our latest post for the most up-to-date info!

The low in the Coral Sea, is expected to shift southwest over the southern Coral Sea during the next few days, possibly approaching the southern Queensland coast late in the week.

It's possible the low will cross the coast between Rockhampton and the Sunshine Coast on Thursday or Thursday night, bringing with it a monsoon trough extending southwards towards the Gold Coast.

As a result, a Severe Weather Warning is current (a copy of the 9:26pm warning at the bottom of this post).

HEAVY RAINFALL

When will it rain? Check the latest 3-hourly detailed forecast.

Rainfall totals by the end of the week are still looking very high at up to 400mm with 50-100mm on Thursday, 150-200mm on Friday and 50-100mm on Saturday.

Rainfall Estimates for 19, 20 and 21 February 2015

ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES

To make matters worse, the highest tide of the year of 1.84m is on Thursday at 8:31am, with another high tide of 1.81m on Friday at 9:16am.

Water levels on the high tides from Thursday are likely to exceed the 1.84m maximum causing tidal flooding in the usual low-lying areas of Budds Beach and Boykambil (Hope Island).

DAMAGING WINDS

Damaging winds gusts of up to 90 km/hr expected during Friday (mostly near the coast and ranges).

Gold Coast Seaway Wind Speed and Wind Direction Forecast
(Source: willyweather.com.au)

DANGEROUS SURF

Dangerous surf conditions and significant beach erosion are also expected from Thursday.

LOCAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT

Whilst the City of Gold Coast Local Disaster Management group has been put on 'Alert' and Mayor Tom Tate was on the evening TV news warning residents of the pending severe weather event - as of Tuesday evening there hasn't yet been any information published from City of Gold Coast advising of the pending event.

Having a quick look at other councils in south-east Queensland, most have already engaged their residents and visitors through social media and/or their own website with essential information.

Most SEQ Councils engaging about severe weather event
(as at 11pm, 17 February 2015)

GET READY - NOW

Tomorrow (Wednesday) will be the last day to prepare for what's coming, so now is the time to Get Ready Gold Coast.

If you do need assistance, here are some essential contact numbers

For any life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For assistance with flooding or storm emergencies, call the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500
For emergencies such as powerlines down, call Energex on 13 19 62
For loss of power supply, call Energex on 13 62 62
For issues with your water or sewerage service, call City of Gold Coast on 1300 000 928
For issues with local roads, stormwater or parks, call City of Gold Coast on 1300 465 326
For road closure information, call 131940

SEVERE WEATHER WARNING

for DAMAGING WINDS, HEAVY RAINFALL, ABNORMALLY HIGH TIDES and DANGEROUS SURF

For people in the Wide Bay and Burnett, Southeast Coast and parts of the Capricornia Forecast Districts.

Issued at 9:26 pm Tuesday, 17 February 2015.

Synoptic Situation: A tropical low pressure system lies over the Coral Sea approximately 1000 km east northeast of Cairns. The low may cross the Capricornia or Wide Bay coast on Friday. The monsoon trough is likely to extend southwards of the low towards southeast Queensland late in the working week, resulting in severe weather near, and well to the south of the low.

Heavy rain and damaging winds are possible from the coast to the ranges between Rockhampton and Brisbane from Thursday, extending down to the state's southern border during Friday. The heavy rain may lead to flash flooding, with some 24 hour totals in excess of 300 mm. The damaging winds gusts may reach around 90 km/hr, mostly near the coast and ranges.

Water levels on the high tide are likely to exceed the highest tide of the year between Rockhampton and the Gold Coast from Thursday. Dangerous surf conditions and significant beach erosion are also expected between Rockhampton and the Gold Coast from Thursday.

Locations which may be affected include Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Gympie, the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises that people should:
* Move your car under cover or away from trees.
* Secure loose outdoor items.
* Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.
* Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.
* Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters.
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
* Surf Life Saving Australia recommends that you stay out of the water and stay well away from surf-exposed areas.
* Check your property regularly for erosion or inundation by sea water, and if necessary raise goods and electrical items.
* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.

The next warning is due to be issued by 3:30 am Wednesday.

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 Queensland Fire and Emergency Services would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.

Get Ready: Heavy rain, strong winds, dangerous surf on Thu/Fri

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Mon, 16 Feb 2015 12:36:00 +0000

Up to 400mm rain may drench the Gold Coast by the end of the week, along with strong winds, high seas and dangerous surf conditions expected on Thursday and Friday.

Total Forecast Rainfall -
16 to 23 February 2015

Check out our latest post for the most up-to-date info!

A low pressure system over the Coral Sea is forecast to move closer to Queensland from Wednesday generating large and powerful easterly swells.

As the low continues heading west, a strong surface trough may extend over southeast Queensland Thursday and more so Friday - and if so producing heavy rain, showers and storms over the southeast districts, and dangerous swells.

When will it rain? Check the latest 3-hourly detailed forecast.

Weatherzone forecaster Ben McVurney said to the Gold Coast Bulletin "the Gold Coast Hinterland could be hit with up to 400mm s of rain in the lead up to the weekend."

“There could be up to 200mm a day on Thursday and Friday and there could be a storm or two as well,” he said.

“Suburbs closer to the coastline could be hit with up to 100mm a day but the real danger will be wind and the surf.” (Source: Gold Coast Bulletin)

BOM spokesman Jeff Carey said people in low lying areas should start to prepare for flooding.

“It is a dynamic situation with lots of variables so the predictions are changing every hour or so but the Gold Coast should be getting hit with around 100mm.

“We are also really worried about erosion because the surf will be very dangerous and the tide is very high.” (Source: Gold Coast Bulletin)

Let's see what the forecasts and predictions say as we get closer to the end of the week. Until then, here's the latest forecast:

Wednesday 18 February
Partly cloudy. High (70%) chance of showers, most likely in the late afternoon and evening. Winds southeasterly 25 to 35 km/h.

Thursday 19 February
Cloudy. High (80%) chance of showers. The chance of a thunderstorm. Winds southeasterly 25 to 35 km/h increasing to 25 to 40 km/h during the morning.

Large and powerful surf conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, swimming and surfing.

Friday 20 February
Cloudy. Very high (90%) chance of rain. The chance of a thunderstorm. Heavy falls possible. Winds east to southeasterly 25 to 40 km/h turning northeasterly 35 to 50 km/h during the morning.

Large and powerful surf conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, swimming and surfing.

Saturday until Monday
Some uncertainty persists with the forecasts early in the weekend given uncertainty regarding the movement of any tropical systems. Rain areas may persist over the state's southeast on Saturday, but it is more likely that the rain will be easing to showers.

Wet and stormy weekend ahead

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Fri, 26 Dec 2014 11:45:00 +0000

Rainfall Forecast for Saturday 27 December 2014.

Up to 50-100mm of rain possible on Saturday and 15-25mm on Sunday for the Gold Coast if the rainfall forecast maps are anything to go by.

A weak ridge lies along Queensland's southeast coast. A surface trough stretches from the northwest of the state down to the southeast interior, and should remain in the same general area during the weekend. An upper level trough and associated cloud band should remain over the southern interior during the weekend and into the early part of the new week.

On Saturday it will be cool to mild beneath a band of rain. Some moderate to heavy falls are possible with storms embedded within the rain band.

On Sunday 28 December, the surface trough should stretch from the northwest down to the southern interior, drawing moist air into it from the east. A medium to high chance of showers and storms about the southeast district.

Saturday: Cloudy. Very high (90%) chance of rain. The chance of a thunderstorm with possible heavy falls. Light winds becoming southeasterly 25 to 35 km/h in the late afternoon.

Sunday: Cloudy. Very high (90%) chance of showers. The chance of a thunderstorm. Winds southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h becoming light before dawn.

Updated 10pm 23/12: Gold Coast Christmas 2014 forecast

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Mon, 22 Dec 2014 02:59:00 +0000

There's been a slight update to the Christmas day forecast - now a slight chance (20%) of a shower or storm, mainly near the hinterland. Boxing day onwards into next week is still looking like showers and storms.

Wednesday (Christmas Eve): Mostly sunny morning. The chance of a shower or thunderstorm about the hinterland in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming northeasterly 20 to 30 km/h in the morning then becoming light in the evening.

Thursday (Christmas Day): Partly cloudy. Slight (20%) chance of a shower or thunderstorm in the afternoon and evening, mostly about the hinterland. Light winds becoming northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h in the middle of the day then becoming light in the evening.

Friday (Boxing Day): Partly cloudy. Medium (50%) chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a thunderstorm in the afternoon and evening. Winds north to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h tending north to northeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening.

Saturday: Cloudy. High (70%) chance of showers. A thunderstorm likely. Winds northerly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light during the morning.

Sunday: Cloudy. High (70%) chance of showers. A thunderstorm likely. Light winds.

Monday: Cloudy. Medium (60%) chance of showers. A thunderstorm likely. Light winds.

Tuesday: Cloudy. Medium (60%) chance of showers. The chance of a thunderstorm. Light winds.

Less rain Friday, but strong winds and powerful surf into the weekend

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 10:24:00 +0000

***This rain event was cancelled due to unexpected good weather :) ***
Whilst we're now only expecting 50mm on Friday and 15mm on Saturday, strong to near gale force winds will start on Friday and powerful surf conditions expected on Saturday and Sunday.

Rainfall Forecast for
Friday 12 December 2014

After today's relatively 'small' storms passed through, the rain has arrived with a spectacular lightning show. Prolonged thunderstorm activity tonight and heavy rainfall is expected with the bureau is forecasting ‘thunderstorm clusters’ - which have the potential to regenerate on themselves as they move slowly across the region.

Radar at 8:12pm,
Thursday 11 December 2014

The more intense falls are now expected to affect areas north of the Sunshine Coast all the way to Rockhampton, however the Gold Coast could still see some decent and heavy falls.

Starting on Friday, winds will be south to southeasterly between 20-40 km/h and peaking at 30-45 km/h on Saturday and back to 25-40 km/h on Sunday. Deceptively powerful surf conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing and swimming.

Wind Forecast (from willyweather.com.au)

3-day forecast:

Friday: Cloudy. Very high (95%) chance of showers, most likely in the morning. The chance of a thunderstorm in the morning. Winds south to southeasterly 25 to 40 km/h.

Saturday: Cloudy. High (70%) chance of showers. Winds south to southeasterly 30 to 45 km/h. Deceptively powerful surf conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing and swimming.

Sunday: Cloudy. Medium (50%) chance of showers, most likely in the morning. The chance of a thunderstorm in the afternoon and evening. Winds southerly 25 to 40 km/h.

Deceptively powerful surf conditions in the early morning are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing and swimming.

Friday to bring heavy rain, possible flooding to Gold Coast

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 13:42:00 +0000

***This rain event was cancelled due to unexpected good weather :) ***

Up to 125mm is expected fall on the Gold Coast over Friday and Saturday, similar to a rain event that brought heavy rain and flooding back on the 27-28 March 2014.

A surface trough is expected to deepen during Thursday night along the NSW/QLD border to form a surface low over the south-east region during Friday.

As a result, Thursday evening is likely to see showers tending to rain areas with possible heavy falls into Friday, before beginning to ease on Saturday. Some areas north of Brisbane at this stage (currently shown in dark blue & purple on the rainfall forecast map) could see up to 300mm.

With these areas of heavy rain there's a high chance of flash flooding, and prolonged areas of rain may lead to creek and river flooding and flooding of low lying areas.

The "little BIG wet" back in March - which was originally forecast to bring 50-150mm - ended up dumping close to 400mm over hinterland areas.

This resulted in flooding of many local creeks, rivers, parks and roads - of which the most prominent was the flooding of the Caravan and Camping Show at the Mudgeeraba showgrounds, causing millions of dollars of damage.

Whilst the estimates aren't quite as high as the March event, we're expecting the Bureau of Meteorology may issue a Severe Weather Warning for heavy rain.

Until then, here's the forecast for the next 3 days:

Thursday: Partly cloudy. High (70%) chance of showers, most likely in the evening. The chance of a thunderstorm. Light winds becoming northeasterly 20 to 30 km/h in the middle of the day then tending northerly 15 to 25 km/h in the evening.

Friday: Cloudy. Very high (near 100%) chance of rain. The chance of a thunderstorm. Winds northerly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light before dawn then becoming southeasterly 25 to 35 km/h in the morning.

Saturday: Cloudy. Very high (near 100%) chance of rain. The chance of a thunderstorm. Winds southeasterly 25 to 35 km/h becoming light during the afternoon then becoming southerly 15 to 20 km/h during the evening.

Coldest morning for 2014 yesterday, severe storms possible today

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Sat, 28 Jun 2014 01:00:00 +0000

After a week of cold mornings and sunny blue skies, the Gold Coast is forecast today (Saturday 28 June 2014) to have scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms this afternoon or evening, possibly severe with damaging winds.

Yesterday (Friday 27th June 2014) was officially our coldest morning this year reaching 2.4°C (or 36.32°F) at Coolangatta Airport and 6.9°C (or 44.42°C) at the Gold Coast Seaway.

Further inland however temps dropped even lower as frost covered areas of the hinterland and temps dropped below freezing, with this picture of Somerset Park in Mudgeeraba showing a blanket of white (Source: Gold Coast Bulletin)

Today however our lowest temps were only around 11-15°C and a warmer top daytime temperature expected of 24°C (or 75.2°F).

It will be partly cloudy until scattered showers develop during the day along with the possible storms with damaging winds.

Outside of any storm activity, winds will be northwesterly 20 to 30 km/h tending northerly 25 to 35 km/h in the early afternoon then turning west to northwesterly 20 to 30 km/h in the evening.

However after today and our little taste of summer in winter, low temps and clear blue skies will be back from tomorrow (Sunday) until Tuesday.

Mid-winter storms? It's possible!

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 03:55:00 +0000

Showers with possible thunderstorms developing this afternoon across the Gold Coast and south-east Queensland.
Radar image at 1:12pm (right) shows heavy but isolated falls just south of the border and lighter falls around the southern hinterland crossing the coast.

Storm probability maps (left, from bsch.com.au) show that storm development is possible (in yellow) this afternoon before moving offshore by 7pm.

Official forecast is for scattered showers developing, becoming more likely in the afternoon, then becoming less likely at night. The chance of thunderstorms from early this afternoon. What's happening in your area?

SATIRE: Severe Pac-Man Warning for south east Australia.

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Wed, 09 Apr 2014 02:57:00 +0000

National radar imagery as at 12:18pm EST showing a large Pacman covering large areas of South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales - presumably mistaking the radar and weather stations for Pac-Dots (or pellets).

Residents are advised to remain calm and look for 'power pellets' or Cherries.

Ok, there's actually no warning of course! It appears one of the local radar images for Mildura didn't blend so well for the national imagery and appear as a large circle with a wedge missing.

You might still be able to see it at http://www.bom.gov.au/products/national_radar_sat.loop.shtml

Otherwise, here's a GIF animation of the radar loop:

Severe storms firing up over the Gold Coast

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Sun, 06 Apr 2014 03:29:00 +0000

Damaging winds and heavy rainfall for the Gold Coast and south-east Queensland are expected over the next several hours as severe thunderstorms develop.

The City of Gold Coast's Disaster Management Unit provided the following information around midday (via Cr Glenn Tozer for Division 9)

A line of developing showers and storms was located on radar from Millmerran-Warwick-Kyogle at about 12pm today. This line may intensify as it reaches the coastline due to increased moisture and instability.

Storms in Northeast NSW have already been stronger than expected, and as such consider an increased risk of thunderstorm and severe thunderstorm activity in Southeast Queensland this afternoon. Pay particular attention to any large storm clusters that suddenly take a more northward move from the favoured E/NE trajectory as this would be a sign of severity.

Large hail and flash flooding are both reasonable risks today (Evans Head recorded 41mm in 10 minutes this morning). Damaging winds are also possible, though storms containing damaging winds are less likely to last as long (because the surface winds today are relatively weak and storms with strong winds in these environments tend to weaken quickly unless surface winds into the storm are also strong)

Check for the latest warning updates on our Twitter and Facebook pages.

Heavy rain, flash flooding risk for the Gold Coast

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Thu, 27 Mar 2014 12:07:00 +0000

There's STILL more rain coming with 100-150mm rain forecast for the Gold Coast region on Friday. Add this to the 50-100mm we've already received there's a real risk of flash flooding and even minor flooding in rivers and catchments. Plus if that's not enough, in the wake of the clearing rain, there's the chance of afternoon thunderstorms.

Rainfall forecast for Friday 28 March 2014

At 9pm EST, a deepening surface trough extended across the southeastern interior of Queensland. The trough is expected to slowly drift towards the southeast during Friday and move off the northern New South Wales coast by early Saturday. An associated cloud band currently extends across southeast Queensland, which should gradually contract offshore during Friday morning. The areas of heavy rain are expected to contract towards the southeast overnight before moving offshore during Friday morning.

Radar Image as at 10:18pm

The 9:49pm Severe Weather Warning for heavy rainfall in the Southeast Coast, Wide Bay and Burnett, and parts of the Darling Downs and Granite Belt districts is still in effect. Areas of heavy rain, which may lead to flash flooding, are currently occurring in these districts. 24 hour totals of 50 to 150mm are likely, with some isolated heavier falls expected.

There's also a Flood Warning for Coastal Rivers (South) as river level rises above the minor flood level are possible in the areas of heaviest rainfall.

Rainfall totals over 12 hours (9am-9pm) for Thursday 27 March 2014

Some of the largest falls across the Gold Coast in the 12 hours since 9am include:

123mm at Upper Springbrook
101mm at Springbrook
95mm at Lower Springbrook
83mm at Tallai
78mm at Little Nerang Dam

The wet weather is also causing issues on local roads, including the Tugun Bypass northbound with a single lane closure due to water over the road since around 3pm Thursday. Other reports of water over the road including Lawrence Drive Nerang.

Plus at around 7:30pm, Energex reported there were over 5000 properties without power in the southern Gold Coast including Tugun, Bilinga and Coolangatta. As of 10pm, this figure is still around 2000 properties in Coolangatta and Bilinga.

So stay safe, stay alert Gold Coast! If you need assistance with flood or storm emergencies, contact the Queensland SES on 132500. All other life threatening emergencies please call 000.

Gold Coast still in firing line for heavy rain

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Thu, 27 Mar 2014 01:12:00 +0000

As expected, there is now a Severe Weather Warning in place for Heavy Rainfall expected to arrive this afternoon and evening - with 24 hour totals of 50-150mm possible.

UPDATE: See our 10pm update with the latest Severe Weather info

The heaviest falls are currently around the Sunshine Coast hinterland with 70mm recorded in 3 hours up to 9:30am.

We're checking with the City of Gold Coast and the Queensland State Emergency Service to see if sandbags are being made available to Gold Coast residents - we'll keep you updated via Twitter and Facebook as further information comes available.

A copy of the latest warning is posted below, however always check the Bureau's website for the latest updates

__________

SEVERE WEATHER WARNING
for HEAVY RAINFALL
For people in the Wide Bay and Burnett, Darling Downs and Granite Belt, Southeast Coast and parts of the Central Highlands and Coalfields and Capricornia Forecast Districts.

Issued at 9:47 am Thursday, 27 March 2014.

Synoptic Situation:

A deepening surface trough extends from the central interior into the western Darling Downs. The trough will drift southeast during the next 24 hours, with the associated cloud band expected to contract off the southeast coast during Friday. A deep, moist east to northeast flow extends across southern central and southeastern districts into the trough.

Areas of heavy rain, which may lead to flash flooding, are expected to extend from central districts south of Gladstone through the Wide Bay and Burnett, the Darling Downs and Granite Belt and Southeast Coast districts from the north during today. 24 hour totals of 50 to 150mm are likely, with some isolated heavier falls expected.

At 9:30am the heaviest rainfall was occurring over the Capricornia district south of Gladstone and on the Sunshine Coast. Cooloolabin Dam on the Sunshine Coast hinterland recorded 70mm in the 3 hours to 9:30am.

The heavy rain band should contract off the southeast coast Friday morning. Shower and thunderstorm activity is expected in the wake of the cloud band through southeast districts on Friday afternoon and Severe Thunderstorm Warnings will be issued as necessary.

Locations which may be affected include Seventeen Seventy, Taroom, Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Maryborough, Kingaroy, Gympie, Goondiwindi, Dalby, Toowoomba, Warwick, Stanthorpe, the Lockyer Valley, the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Severe weather is no longer occurring in the Maranoa and Warrego district and the warning for this district is CANCELLED.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises that people should:
* Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters.
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.

The next warning is due to be issued by 3:50 pm.

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 Queensland Fire and Emergency Services would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.

"Yes it's still coming!" Update on the Gold Coast's 'little BIG wet'

noreply@blogger.com (weathergc) — Wed, 26 Mar 2014 12:30:00 +0000

Whilst it seems like the rain is currently 'avoiding' the Gold Coast area, just remember it's our turn from Thursday with the main falls expected overnight and throughout Friday.

UPDATE: See our 10pm update with the latest Severe Weather info

A trough which extends from the Maranoa and Warrego district into the central interior and is expected to deepen overnight and during Thursday before slipping southeast through southeastern districts on Friday. A rain band is currently in areas to the east of the trough and is expected to develop further in the next 24 hours.

A Severe Weather Warning has been issued by the Bureau for heavy rain in the Central Highlands and Coalfields, Maranoa and Darling Downs and Granite Belt districts with 24 hour totals of 70-120mm likely.

At this stage the Southeast forecast district - which includes the Gold Coast region - is currently not within the warning area.

However, if the latest computer generated rainfall forecast maps are anything to go by, whilst we're expecting 25-50mm Thursday, 50-100mm is expected on Friday - possibly even up to 100-150mm in some coastal areas - it's highly likely the warning area will include the Gold Coast by tomorrow evening.

The current forecast for Thursday is for rain and the chance of thunderstorms with possible heavy falls during the evening. Min 22, Max 25. Winds easterly 20 to 30 km/h.

Friday's forecast is obviously more rain, with possible heavy falls and isolated thunderstorms, easing to scattered showers during the evening. Min 22, Max 25. Winds east to northeasterly 20 to 25 km/h tending north to northeasterly 25 to 35 km/h in the morning.

By the time the weekend arrives, most of the rain should have cleared leaving scattered showers and possible storms, with temperatures back up in the 30's.

We'll keep you updated as this rain event evolves, thanks for reading!