Brisbane Braces for Showery Sunday Amid Statewide Flood Recovery
BRISBANE, 18 January 2026 – The Queensland capital is set for a damp and humid Sunday, with a high chance of showers and possible thunderstorms, as the state continues to manage widespread flooding following the passage of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji. The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts a top of 30°C for Brisbane today, with significant rainfall expected.
Today’s Forecast & Extended Outlook
According to the Bureau of Meteorology forecast issued on Saturday evening, conditions for Brisbane on Sunday 18 January are partly cloudy with a high (80%) chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. There is a chance of a thunderstorm in the morning. Light winds are expected to become southeasterly at 15 to 25 km/h around midday before easing in the late evening. The UV index is predicted to reach 14, classified as Extreme, with sun protection recommended from 7:40 am to 4:10 pm.
The wet weather is forecast to ease slightly through the working week, though showers remain a possibility.
Brisbane Seven-Day Forecast
| Date | Min – Max Temp | Precis & Rain Chance |
|---|---|---|
| Sun 18 Jan | 23°C – 30°C | Showers. High chance (80%). 1-20 mm possible. |
| Mon 19 Jan | 22°C – 31°C | Showers. Medium chance (40%). 0-1 mm possible. |
| Tue 20 Jan | 21°C – 30°C | Showers. Medium chance (50%). 0-1 mm possible. |
| Wed 21 Jan | 20°C – 31°C | Showers. Medium chance (40%). 0-1 mm possible. |
| Thu 22 Jan | 21°C – 32°C | Slight chance of a shower (30%). |
| Fri 23 Jan | 21°C – 32°C | Slight chance of a shower (30%). |
Flooding Continues Across Queensland
The wet conditions in the south-east coincide with a major flooding event across central and northern Queensland. Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, which made landfall as a Category 1 system near Ayr on 11 January, has brought torrential rain to already saturated catchments. Communities such as Clermont recorded over 200 mm of rain in 24 hours, leading to inundated homes and a major community clean-up effort.
As of Sunday, multiple flood warnings remain current. Major flood warnings are in place for the Connors, Isaac, Mackenzie, Georgina, and Flinders rivers, with moderate warnings for the Thomson and Suttor rivers. Emergency services continue to warn residents in affected areas not to drive through floodwaters.
Climate Context: A Warming Trend
The severe weather follows the recent confirmation that 2025 was the world’s third hottest year on record. The Copernicus Climate Change Service reported the global surface air temperature was 1.47°C above pre-industrial levels, marking the third consecutive year above the 1.5°C Paris Agreement benchmark for long-term trends. Scientists have linked rising ocean temperatures to the intensity of rainfall events like those delivered by Ex-TC Koji.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fire danger rating in Brisbane today?
The fire danger rating for Brisbane on Sunday 18 January is Moderate.
Are there any severe weather warnings for Brisbane?
As of the latest forecast, there are no specific severe thunderstorm warnings for Brisbane for Sunday 18 January. However, a high chance of showers and the possibility of a morning thunderstorm are forecast. Residents should monitor the Bureau of Meteorology for updates.
How does Brisbane’s current weather compare to its historical average?
Brisbane’s long-term average maximum temperature for January is 29°C, with an average of approximately 163 mm of rainfall over the month. The forecast maximum of 30°C is near average, but the predicted rainfall for today (1-20 mm) contributes to what is typically the wettest month of the year.