Families in Brisbane and surrounds are being told to Get Ready for a summer of wild weather and possible natural disasters. Deputy Premier Steven Miles communicated the message recently, saying Australia is in line for its third La Nina season in a row.
“From flooding and cyclones to bushfires, heatwaves and giant hail, we experience it all in Queensland,” Mr Miles says. “We need to prepare for it all.”
He says Queensland is the most disaster-impacted state in Australia. This is backed up by the latest Bureau of Meteorology forecast, signalling more rough weather is on the way.
BOM’s severe weather outlook
The BOM’s outlook warns of an increased risk of widespread flooding for eastern and northern Australia. There is also an increased risk of an above-average number of tropical cyclones and tropical lows.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk says Queenslanders could expect a lot more rain. There is also a likelihood of cyclones forming earlier in the season.
“Instead of our traditional cyclones coming around December, January, we are expecting cyclones could form as early as November,” she says. “Now is the time to get ready.”
Brisbane and surrounds still recovering
Parts of Brisbane and surrounding areas are still recovering from the heavy rain that hit the region in February. More than 20,000 Brisbane homes were impacted by floodwaters following three days of severe weather.
In September, Brisbane City Council implemented changes to how it responds to flood disasters, following a review of the flooding. Among the changes is a new flood map interface. It includes up-to-date details of river, creek and overland flooding. An updated FloodWise Property Report also makes it easier for residents to visually understand how flooding may impact a property for building and development across the city.
Simple steps to get ready for storms
Get Ready Queensland Ambassador Johnathan Thurston says there are basic things you can do now to ensure you are well prepared ahead of storm season.
“Queenslanders can get ready now by following three simple steps: know your risk, make an emergency plan, and pack an emergency kit,” Mr Thurston says.
Severe weather is a natural part of living in Brisbane’s sub-tropics. Every year, Brisbane experiences severe weather, but it’s important to take the time to prepare your family, pets and property. Brisbane City Council has recommendations on what you can do before, during and after a severe weather event to maintain your safety.
Get ready before the storm
- Register for free Severe Weather Alerts
- Trim tree branches well clear of your house. Check and clean your roof, gutters and downpipes. Identify loose objects in your yard or on your balcony that will need to be removed or secured if a storm is approaching. Use sandbags to reduce the impact of flooding. Stock up on masking tap and plastic sheeting for emergency rain protection.
- Prepare an emergency kit that includes
- a portable battery-operated radio and torch with fresh or spare batteries and bulk
- a list of Brisbane radio stations for emergency information
- candles with waterproof matches or a gas lantern
- reasonable stocks of fresh water and tinned or dried food
- a first aid kit and basic first aid knowledge
- good supplies of essential medication
- strong shoes and rubber gloves
- a waterproof bag for clothing and valuables (put valuables and certificates in the bag and put the bag in a safe place)
- a list of your emergency contact numbers
- a car charger for your mobile phone
While severe weather can occur at any time of year, October to April is the peak time for flooding, tropical cyclones, heatwaves, bush fires and severe thunderstorms. It is important to know your weather and know your risk to ensure you can act quickly and stay safe.
Get Ready Queensland is a year-round, all-hazards, resilience-building initiative to help communities prepare for natural disasters.
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Are you ready for storm season?
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