Wild weather predicted for SE Qld

Damaging wind gusts and sleet are expected to hit the southern end of Queensland as authorities brace for another 24 hours of wild weather.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has sent out a severe weather warning for southeast Queensland, with west to southwest wind gusts in excess of 90km/h expected to belt the region on Thursday morning.

BoM says the winds are a result of a low deepening over the Tasman Sea, producing a tight pressure gradient over the southeast corner.

The Department of Community Safety is advising people in affected areas to secure loose outdoor items and stay aware of fallen trees and powerlines.

BoM forecaster Michelle Berry says sleet is expected to hit areas around the Granite Belt region early on Friday morning.

She said areas south of Warwick, including Stanthorpe and Applethorpe, are likely to experience below-zero temperatures.

The prediction of damaging winds follows Wednesday's wild weather, which led to the capsize of a boat carrying 21 people and a huge barge washing ashore.

The capsize victims were rescued off the central Queensland coast and the barge has now been refloated off a Gold Coast beach.

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