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for DAMAGING WIND and HEAVY RAINFALL

For people in the Ipswich, Logan, Scenic Rim, Lockyer Valley, Gold Coast and parts of the Somerset, Southern Downs, Toowoomba, Brisbane City and Moreton Bay Council Areas.

Issued at 8:06 am Wednesday, 18 March 2015.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 8:05 am, severe thunderstorms were detected on weather radar near the area south of Toowoomba and Cambooya. These thunderstorms are moving towards the northeast. They are forecast to affect Boonah, Laidley, Gatton and Toowoomba by 8:35 am and Ipswich, Beaudesert and Esk by 9:05 am.

Damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding are likely.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises that people should: 
* Move your car under cover or away from trees. 
* Secure loose outdoor items. 
* Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters. 
* Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees. 
* Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm. 
* Beware of fallen trees and powerlines. 
* For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500. 

The next warning is due to be issued by 9:10 am.

A more general severe thunderstorm warning is also current for the Southeast Coast and parts of the Wide Bay and Burnett and Darling Downs and Granite Belt districts.

Warnings are also available through TV and Radio broadcasts, the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 219. The Bureau and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services would appreciate warnings being broadcast regularly.