Storm Warnings with Tornadoes and Large Hail Across Eastern Australia
Australia’s storm season has intensified, with the next 72 hours expected to bring rain, showers, and thunderstorms to the eastern two-thirds of the country.
Severe Weather Threat Today
The highest risk of severe weather is today, with dangerous supercell thunderstorms likely over the densely populated areas of south-east Queensland and north-east New South Wales.
These storms may produce one or two tornadoes, posing significant threats especially near Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast.
Widespread Rainfall in South Australia and Beyond
Meanwhile, a cloudband will develop over South Australia this weekend, spreading up to a month’s worth of rain across south-east Australia early next week.
- Potential for moderate rainfall in Adelaide, Canberra, Hobart, and Melbourne
Understanding Supercell Thunderstorms
Today’s forecast is not typical. A volatile mix of atmospheric factors has created ideal conditions for supercell thunderstorms, the least common but most dangerous storms.
A supercell is defined as a storm with a deep rotating updraft, distinguished from ordinary storms by their intensity, behavior, and impact.
Severe storms could occur anywhere between Moranbah and Mudgee, though the most intense activity is expected over south-east Queensland and north-east New South Wales.
Author’s summary: Intense supercell storms with tornado risks are forecast for populous eastern Australia, while widespread heavy rain is expected to impact the southeast early next week.