COASTAL WEATHER OUTLOOK for Weekend of 16th, 17th, 18th January 2026.

Weekend Coastal Weather Outlook: January 16 – 18, 2026

By Josh Toohey, Coastwatch

This weekend promises generally pleasant conditions for boating and coastal activities across Southeast Queensland and Northeast New South Wales, with some caveats due to approaching low-pressure systems and troughs that may trigger thunderstorms.

Key Highlights:

• Friday:
  • Surface trough moving into northeastern NSW, connecting with a coastal trough.
  • Showers and isolated thunderstorms likely in NSW; minimal impact on SE Queensland.
• Saturday:
  • Coastal trough offshore intensifies instability.
  • Increased risk of thunderstorms in SE Queensland during the afternoon and evening, especially inland.
  • Winds: Northeasterly turning southeasterly, gusts up to 25 knots along the SE coast; calmer in Sunshine Coast and Fraser Coast.
• Sunday:
  • Sea breeze strengthens, bringing cooler, more stable air.
  • Reduced thunderstorm risk for SE Queensland; inland areas may still see storms.
  • Winds increase to 20–25 knots (gusts up to 30–35 knots in NSW), seas rising to 2–3.5 meters offshore.

Safety Note:

• Severe thunderstorms possible Friday night and Saturday in northeastern NSW and parts of SE Queensland. Boaters should monitor radar and seek shelter if conditions deteriorate.

Don’t destroy what you came to enjoy!

BEACH SIGNS

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