IT LOOKS like there are storms due to move across the Southern Downs today.

Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Gordon Banks said thunderstorms will develop the west of Warwick at about midday and move toward the coast by the evening.

"The strongest dynamics for storms are in the north of New South Wales but we should see something developing to the south west of Toowoomba," he said.

"There should be a reasonable scattering of showers."

This localised band of thunderstorms could be up 100km long.

"It does tend to spread the rain a little bit more fairly than typical showers," Mr Banks said.

Residents under the bigger storm clouds can expect up to 30mm of the rain while the rest us will get a slight taste of the wet.

"I'd hope to see up to 5mm over a larger area," Mr Banks said.

"It's not a particularly useful amount of rain but we'll take anything we can get."

There is the potential for some damaging wind and hail and the BoM will continue to monitor the band of storms as it migrates.

Regardless, we should be in for a show with a large amount of lightning forecast, so keep an eye out.

"Lighting is good to let people know something is coming," Mr Banks said.

How to prepare for storm season

STORM season has officially begun so now is the time to prepare the home for emergencies.

Here are four things to do now to become more storm resilient:

1. General maintenance

Check the roof for loose tiles, clear gutters and downpipes, trim trees and overhanging branches, and secure loose items that could cause damage in high winds.

2. Prepare for the worst

Identify which room is the strongest in the house, this will be the smallest room with the least windows. Find out how to turn off mains supply for water, power and gas. Ensure your home, contents and car insurance is current and covers assets adequately.

3. Link to services

Keep an eye on the BoM website for weather warnings.

4. Make a kit

Put together an emergency kit with a torch, spare batteries, water and first aid essentials.