Brisbane is facing a period of unsettled weather on Monday, with thunderstorms, gusty winds and short bursts of rain forecast across South East Queensland. The weather warning comes as thousands of people attend the Royal Queensland Show, commonly known as the Ekka, at the Brisbane Showgrounds.

A large weather system moving across Australia is contributing to the unstable conditions. Forecast information indicates that thunderstorms could develop across South East Queensland during the day, with Brisbane among the areas that may experience sudden changes in weather.

The Bureau of Meteorology has warned of strong winds in surrounding coastal and marine areas, while weather forecasters have highlighted the possibility of short, sharp storms. Some storm cells could produce stronger wind gusts, creating potentially difficult conditions for people travelling around Brisbane and attending outdoor activities.

Forecasts indicate Brisbane could reach around 25 degrees Celsius on Monday. Winds are expected to be noticeable throughout the day, while showers and thunderstorms may develop around the middle of the day before conditions gradually improve later.

The timing is particularly important because the weather is arriving during the Ekka, Brisbane's major annual agricultural and entertainment event. The Royal Queensland Show is being held at the Brisbane Showgrounds in Bowen Hills from 8 to 16 August 2026, bringing large crowds to the city for rides, agricultural competitions, entertainment, food and other activities.

Organisers and visitors therefore need to keep an eye on weather updates while planning their day. Sudden thunderstorms can affect outdoor rides, temporary structures, pedestrian movement and transport, while strong wind gusts can create additional safety concerns around exposed areas.

The latest forecast suggests the most active weather could occur around the middle of Monday, although conditions can change quickly when thunderstorms develop. People attending the Ekka are being encouraged to have suitable wet-weather clothing available and to monitor official weather warnings.

The weather system is not expected to remain over Brisbane for the entire week. Conditions are forecast to become cooler and calmer after Monday, although another weather system is expected later in the week.

The Bureau of Meteorology's latest forecast also indicates that south-eastern and central parts of Queensland could experience thunderstorms, strong winds and brief rainfall on Monday.

For Brisbane residents and Ekka visitors, the main concern is the possibility of rapidly changing conditions rather than prolonged heavy rainfall. Short but intense thunderstorms can produce sudden wind increases and heavy rain, so visitors should be prepared to move indoors or seek appropriate shelter if warnings are issued.

With Brisbane hosting one of Queensland's biggest annual events this week, the weather is an important consideration for visitors, event operators and transport services. Conditions are expected to ease during Monday evening, providing a calmer outlook for the remainder of the week.