No reprieve for Queenslanders as heatwave conditions persist into the weekend

Queensland is recording temperatures 6C to 8C above average amid a persisting heatwave, according to the Bureau of Meteorlogy.

Severe heatwave warnings are currently in place for inland areas of Queensland, while much of the state is also under low-intensity heatwave warnings.

Central Queensland and Gulf Country regions are expected to feel the worst of the weather, with Mount Isa forecast to hit 43C on Friday and stay above 40C into next week.

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Speaking to ABC News Breakfast, senior meteorologist Dean Narramore said the BOM expects the heat to continue across the weekend with only some relief in sight for parts of the state.

“That translates to temperatures in the high 30s to low 40s… That heat is likely to linger as we get through the weekend [and] slowly cool down in the south-east, but continue for inland areas right through the next week and for much of our tropical north as well,” he said.

The BOM also expects to see some showers develop and potential thunderstorms develop in the southeast.

“We could even see some severe thunderstorms through some southern areas,” BOM meteorologist Angus Hines told news.com.au.

“At the moment, it’s looking most likely that would be around the scenic rim and the border ranges, but potentially could spread through other parts of southeastern Queensland through the afternoon hours.”

Locations likely impacted by the persiting heatwave include the Brisbane Metropolitan Area, Cloncurry, Charleville, Dalby, Georgetown, Goondiwindi, Longreach, Roma, Stanthorpe and Winton.

Residents should seek a cool place, close blinds and curtains, and use fans and air conditioners if available.

Unless of a significant update, the BOM will provide its next heatwave warning at 3pm on Friday.

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