Christmas weather: rain forecast along Australia’s east coast after Brisbane hit by storms and hail

Thunderstorm conditions extending from Mackay in Queensland to Melbourne, with BoM warning weather may change quickly

Widespread rain and cloudy weather affecting much of the east coast is expected to continue into Christmas Day, with revellers encouraged to prepare an indoor option for tomorrow's festivities.

Queensland was lashed with severe thunderstorms on Sunday, with giant hail and huge downpours of up to 43mm in just 15 minutes recorded in northern Brisbane.