The Bureau of Meteorology has put out a severe weather warning for the northern Bowen Basin and surrounding areas, warning that scattered thunderstorms could cause localised flash flooding.

Potentially damaging wind gusts have also been predicted for the area.

A BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) spokesperson said that, with all the company’s operations based in the Bowen Basin, it has been forced to limit production in the interests of safety.

“The adverse weather conditions and significant rainfall across the Bowen Basin have impacted all BMA operations,” she said.

“We are continuing to monitor the situation and our focus remains on ensuring the safety of all of our employees, contractors and their families.”