Southwest Queensland, including Brisbane, Toowoomba, Roma, Goondiwindi ... - The Australian

Sky News Weather has released its severe weather outlook for 2013-14 and an increase in tropical cyclones, heatwaves and thunderstorms are on the cards.

THE worst storms so far this season are expected to smash southeast Queensland - and residents have been warned to spend Tuesday morning preparing their properties.

Bureau of Meteorology senior forecaster Matthew Bass said the same trough that brought damaging winds that lashed south-western Queensland on Monday afternoon would continue tracking toward the coast on Tuesday.

STORM WARNING: Cyclone threat to state

Severe thunderstorms are due to hit Roma and Goondiwindi from late Tuesday morning, followed by Toowoomba and then coastal areas in the afternoon and evening.

"We can expect wind gusts of 90km/h or more and large hail is definitely a possibility,'' Mr Bass said.

Gales of that speed are strong enough to snap branches off trees and strip tiles from roofs, he said.

Emergency Management Queensland warned residents to take precautions by taking garden furniture inside and securing items that cannot be moved undercover, such as trampolines and swing sets.

Director of disaster management Brian Cox said electrical items, external television and radio aerials, and computer modems should be disconnected, ahead of the storms.

"When the storms strike, stay inside and shelter well clear of windows, doors and skylights,'' Mr Cox said - adding that if you have to be outside, seek solid enclosed shelter and stay well away from trees and power lines.

Forecasters expect more storms for the southeast on Wednesday, with conditions easing on Thursday ahead of a sunny and hot weekend.

Anyone who needs assistance should call the State Emergency Service on 132 500.

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