November 4, 2024
Severe storms once again swept across northeastern NSW, with giant hail up to 6cm in diameter recorded near Grafton. Tomorrow, showers and storms will continue across northeastern NSW and are likely to extend into parts of southeastern Queensland.
Compared to last week, the chance of storms may shift a little further inland and be less likely around metropolitan areas. While that’s good news for insurers, it’s a concern for agricultural areas, which will be more in the firing line for potential damaging winds and large hail. However, places like Ipswich and the western suburbs of Brisbane will still face a severe storm threat, with the risk decreasing closer to the coastline.
Storm Intensity Mapping showing severe storms over northeastern NSW today. More severe storms will likely occur tomorrow but extend into Southeast Queensland also. Source: Weatherwatch Weather Dashboard
Inland Storm Potential Driven by Wind Shear & Strong Cap
The likely shift further inland is due to how wind shear will influence the storm movement. Winds in the upper atmosphere tomorrow will be from the southwest. As storms intensify, they’ll likely “left move,” tracking mostly in a northerly direction. With storm initiation expected around the NE NSW ranges and the inland Scenic Rim region, the lack of an easterly track will likely keep the strongest storm activity slightly further inland. Further, an early seabreeze should result in a stronger cap close to the coastline which will see storms struggle a little over eastern areas.
Instability may be higher just behind the southeast change tomorrow - though the seabreeze may assist in driving moisture ahead of the change also. Regardless, higher based storm activity is likely that may interact with the southeast change and seabreeze to become severe. Source: MetCentre
Once again, a southeast change will likely contribute to storm development. Though it’s just a single day of storms expected for Southeast Queensland, the heat this week will make it feel like summer has arrived early. And it’s not just Southeast Queensland experiencing the heat!
ACCESS & EC rainfall for tomorrow (Tuesday) showing precipitation favouring areas just inland from the coastline. Source: MetCentre
Summer Temperatures Set to Soar
Ipswich can expect maximums in the mid-30s until Wednesday, rising to the high 30s on Thursday and Friday. Friday will be the next day to monitor for possible showers and storm activity in the southeast.
Maximum temperature forecast for Wednesday. Source: MetCentre
That’s relatively mild compared to inland Queensland. Birdsville will see temperatures climb to the mid-40s on Tuesday and Wednesday—9°C above average—while Charleville will finish the week with highs near the low 40s, up to 8°C above average for November.
Birdsville MetGraph showing high temperatures for Tuesday and Wednesday before "cooling down" to the high 30s on Thursday and Friday. Source: MetCentre
Tips to Stay Cool During Heatwaves
Even though it’s only November, temperatures can still reach dangerous levels. Taking precautions is essential, as heatwaves cause more fatalities than any other form of severe weather. Here are some quick tips to help you stay cool:
Stay Hydrated: Drink water consistently throughout the day, even if you’re not feeling thirsty, and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
Create a Cool Space: Use fans and air conditioning if available, and close blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day to keep out heat.
Avoid Strenuous Activity: Limit physical activity between 11am and 4pm. If you need to be outside, aim for early morning or evening hours.
Take Cool Showers or Baths: A quick cool-down in water can lower your core temperature and offer instant relief.
With temperatures soaring across Queensland this week and the risk of more storms, it’s a timely reminder that we’re well into the warm severe weather season. Please reach out to our friendly team of meteorologists if we can help you prepare!
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