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Stormy Sunday: Heavy Rainfall and Flood Risks Grip the Gold Coast

AuthorEditorial Team
Published
15 February 2026/02:30
Section
Weather
Stormy Sunday: Heavy Rainfall and Flood Risks Grip the Gold Coast
Source: Wikimedia Commons / Author: NASA Earth Observatory (Wanmei Liang)

Significant Rainfall and Flood Warnings in Effect

Gold Coast residents are advised to exercise extreme caution today, Sunday, 15 February 2026, as a persistent low-pressure system continues to dump heavy rain across the region. Following a saturated Saturday, meteorologists are predicting a drenching Sunday with upwards of 41mm of rainfall expected throughout the day. A flash flood warning remains active for low-lying areas, and authorities are urging motorists to avoid all non-essential travel through flooded causeways.

Detailed Daily Breakdown

The weather today will remain predominantly overcast with high humidity levels reaching 88%. Here is what to expect throughout the day:

  • Morning: Temperatures will start around 21°C. Light rain showers are expected early, but intensity will increase as the morning progresses. Expect overcast skies and a moderate southeasterly breeze.
  • Afternoon: The mercury will reach a maximum of 24°C. This period will see the heaviest rainfall of the day, with a 94% chance of precipitation. Thunderstorms are possible, particularly in the Hinterland regions where totals could be significantly higher.
  • Evening: Temperatures will hover around 23°C. Showers will remain frequent, and wind speeds are expected to pick up, reaching 20 to 25 knots from the southeast, making for a blustery end to the weekend.

Hazardous Marine and Coastal Conditions

For those planning to visit the coast, conditions are currently hazardous. Strong southeasterly winds are generating swells between 1 and 2 meters, creating dangerous surf conditions. Local lifesavers have warned that beach closures are likely throughout the day. Boaters should stay in sheltered waters as the combination of wind and low-pressure troughs has made marine activities unsuitable.

Tide and Sunlight Information

Understanding the tide cycles is crucial today given the heightened risk of riverine flooding. The tides at the Gold Coast Seaway are scheduled as follows:

  • High Tide: 7:10 AM (1.66m)
  • Low Tide: 1:43 PM (0.39m)
  • High Tide: 7:20 PM (1.18m)

The sun rose this morning at 5:28 AM and is expected to set at 6:31 PM. With a moderate UV index of 3, sun protection is less of a concern today than the need for sturdy umbrellas and waterproof gear. Stay tuned to local alerts as catchments are reaching capacity, and conditions may change rapidly.