Sonali Tiwary
Severe thunderstorms can affect parts of New South Wales and Queensland during spring. The Bureau of Meteorology says a storm is “severe” only when it meets specific wind, hail, rain or tornado thresholds.
What is forecast
The Bureau of Meteorology warns of severe convective thunderstorms across parts of eastern Australia during the storm season. These systems can bring damaging winds, large hail and flash flooding, particularly where storms repeatedly affect the same areas.
The official threshold for a severe thunderstorm includes damaging wind gusts of 90 km/h or more, hail measuring at least 2 cm across, heavy rainfall that could cause flash flooding, or a tornado.
What it means for residents
Residents across eastern New South Wales and Queensland should rely on official Bureau of Meteorology radar and State Emergency Service warnings rather than dramatic headlines. A storm does not need a sensational label to be dangerous; damaging winds, large hail or flash flooding require practical precautions, including securing loose items, parking vehicles undercover where safe and avoiding flooded causeways.
Why wording matters
*What makes a thunderstorm officially ‘severe’ in Australia?* The Bureau of Meteorology defines a severe thunderstorm as one producing or expected to produce hail at least 2 cm in diameter, wind gusts of 90 km/h or higher, heavy rainfall that could cause flash flooding, or a tornado. The Bureau uses “destructive wind gusts” for gusts of 125 km/h or more.
Flash-flooding risk depends on rainfall intensity, terrain, soil saturation and drainage. Official warnings and radar provide the most reliable local guidance.
Check back for updated warnings and post-storm assessments.
