Extreme weather can wreak havoc on communities in Queensland resulting in widespread damage to roofs, houses and buildings. This creates an impact on physical infrastructure, emotional, social, economic and physical well being of the affected communities.
Violent Storms
Severe storms can be detected early through meteorological monitoring. The Bureau of Meteorology provides local and regional warnings of severe storm events with community announcements via the internet, radio and television.
The peak period for severe storms in Brisbane is the spring and summer months from September through to March.
As the Storm Approaches
- Listen to the local radio station for information.
- Shelter and secure pets and animals.
- Shelter vehicles or cover with tarpaulins or blankets.
- Secure outdoor furniture and other lightweight items.
- Put tape (cross fashion ‘X’) or cover large windows.
During the Storm
- Stay inside and keep away from windows in the strongest part of the house, usually the bathroom.
- If necessary, cover yourself under a table or with a mattress, blanket, doona or tarpaulin.
- Listen to your portable radio for storm updates.
- If outdoors, find emergency shelter – do not stand under trees.
- If driving, stop clear of trees, power lines and streams.
- Avoid using the phone during storms.
After the Storm
- Avoid fallen power lines, damaged buildings and trees and flooded watercourses.
- If safe, check your house for damage.
- If you need emergency assistance, call the appropriate emergency service on 000, or the State Emergency Services (SES) on 132 500.
- If you don’t need help, check your neighbours.
- Stay at home to help others, don’t go sightseeing.