Gold Coast swelters through summer scorcher ahead of severe storm forecast

GOLD Coasters have sweltered through scorching temperatures above 35C today ahead of forecast thunderstorms.

The mercury peaked at 36.9C at the Gold Coast Seaway just after midday – the highest recorded at the seaway since January 4 this year when temperatures hit 33.4C.

The Bureau of Meteorology says the Gold Coast could see a gusty thunderstorm tonight before a slow moving trough triggers potentially damaging storms on Thursday afternoon.

For tips on being ready this storm season, visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/getready

Forecasters are tipping anywhere up to 10mm of fain to fall under the strongest cells tomorrow, along with the high chance of strong winds and large hail.

A weak electric storm caught many residents off guard when it rolled across the city about 11pm last night, unleashing spectacular lightning which illuminated the city skies for hours (pictures below).

NOTE: All thunderstorms generally produce lightning, and many produce gusty winds, brief heavy showers and hail. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings will only be issued if the storms are expected to produce any of the following: