Storm Warnings with Tornadoes and Giant Hail
Australia's storm season is intensifying, with the next 72 hours bringing a mix of rain, showers, and thunderstorms to the eastern two-thirds of the country.
Severe Weather Threat Today
The most serious risk of severe weather is expected today, particularly from dangerous supercell thunderstorms. These storms, which occasionally produce tornadoes, are likely over the densely populated areas of south-east Queensland and north-east New South Wales.
Supercell Thunderstorms Explained
Supercell storms are rare but extremely hazardous due to their powerful rotating updrafts. They differ from normal storms in intensity, behavior, and impact.
"A supercell is defined as a storm with a deep rotating updraft, and they stand out from garden variety storms by their intensity, behaviour and impacts."
Additional Weather Developments
Alongside these storms near the east coast, a cloudband will develop over South Australia this weekend. This system could deliver up to a month's worth of rain across south-east Australia by early next week, affecting cities like Adelaide, Canberra, Hobart, and Melbourne with moderate rainfall.
Regions at Risk
- South-east Queensland
- North-east New South Wales (including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast)
- South-east Australia (Adelaide, Canberra, Hobart, Melbourne)
"While severe storms are possible today anywhere from about Moranbah to Mudgee, the most violent storms should form over south-east Queensland and north-east NSW."
These conditions create an unusually volatile atmosphere, making today’s storms more intense and dangerous than typical weather events.
Summary: Australia's storm season escalates with dangerous supercells, potential tornadoes, and heavy rain threatening densely populated eastern regions and southeastern cities over the coming days.