A HAZARDOUS surf warning has been put in place for Queensland's coast south of Rockhampton as meteorologists keep a close watch on Cyclone Oma.
The category two cyclone is tracking slowly south-west from New Caledonia across the Coral Sea and could reach Queensland's south-east coast by Saturday.
Forecast tracking maps prepared by the Bureau of Meteorology suggest the cyclone could hit within 150-kilometres of Queensland's coast by Saturday.
- Read more: Cyclone Oma tracks towards Queensland
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A Bureau spokesman said the cyclone's path would be influenced by a high pressure system building across the Tasman Sea.
Cyclone Oma would likely deliver rain from late Saturday south from Bundaberg, which could be intensified if she made landfall.
The spokesman said a cyclone watch would likely be issued for parts of Queensland's southern coast as Cyclone Oma moved closer.
"She'll likely have a few twist and turns left in her yet and forecasts and warnings may change rapidly as more new information comes to hand," he said.
Surf Life Saving Queensland has already closed Main Beach at North Stradbroke Island due to dangerous surf conditions earlier today, with police warning Queensland boaties and swimmers to take care.
The Bureau of Meteorology issued a hazardous surf warning for Capricornia Coast, Hervey Bay, the Fraser and Sunshine coasts, Moreton Bay and Gold Coast earlier today.
Queensland Police Service has advised boaties and swimmers to stay away from surf-exposed areas for at least the next five days.
Senior Sergeant David Edden said people needed to make smart decisions to stay safe.
“The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a hazardous surf warning for waters between Yeppoon and the Gold Coast with seas reaching extreme conditions over the coming days,” he said.
“All boaties, fishers, surfers and swimmers should reconsider any plans which involve the surf over the coming days."
Senior Sergeant Edden urged boat owners to check their vessels were anchored properly.
“Those already on the water should ensure they are carrying the appropriate safety equipment and are wearing life jackets," he said.
“Remember to log on with their local radio base and consider their safety management plan.”
Always dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
