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How Can You Prepare for Queensland Storm Season

This month, we have partnered with Solutions in Engineering to share some helpful tips on how to best prepare for the upcoming storm season.

Queensland has already endured unprecedented wet weather throughout 2022 and this storm season will see even more rain, floods and tropical cyclones due to a rare triple La Nina event.  With Australia in line for a third consecutive La Nina season, Queenslanders need to prepare their homes, families, pets and double check their insurance in the event of natural disasters.

The Bureau of Meteorology have reported Queensland to exceed their peak rainfall totals for November. This means Brisbane could receive more than 130mm, the Gold Coast 150mm and the Sunshine Coast 180mm.

Storm season in Australia runs from November 2022 to April 2023. Every year, Queenslanders brace themselves for severe and damaging weather over the summer period. Preparation is easy with some really handy and really simple checklists for all property owners. Below are two checklists to make you ready for storm season:-

YOUR STORM PREPARATION LIST

Familiarise your household with the following tips and information for when a storm strikes:-

  • Check and clean your roof, gutters and downpipes; 
  • Identify loose objects on your balcony or in your yard such as outdoor furniture and toys that will have to be put away or secured if a storm approaches. These can turn into missiles in a storm;
  • Have a supply of plastic shopping bags to use as sand bags for emergency storm water diversion;
  • Have masking tape and plastic sheeting or large garbage bags available for emergency rain protection;
  • Review your emergency evacuation plan – remind all household members of evacuation meeting point. Identify at least two routes to evacuate;
  • Back up any important computer files;
  • Secure the premises – Is everything locked up?
  • If your property has large trees that are not protected under any council Vegetation Protection Orders arrange for an arborist to carry out a check-up and remove any branches that overhang the building and/or are showing signs of decay or termite damage; and
  • If it’s a big one make sure you have plenty of gas in your BBQ or camping cooker, canned food, bottled water and other non-perishable food

YOUR STORM EMERGENCY KIT LIST

Everyone should check these off:-

  • a portable battery operated radio and torch with fresh or spare batteries and bulb;
  • a list of local 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 booklet/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;
  • Portable battery pack for your phone.