Severe storms impact all areas of Queensland, striking at any time of year. They are often unpredictable, can last many hours and travel long distances, causing serious injury and major damage to property. They are the most common severe weather event in Queensland and are predicted to occur more regularly in Australia.
Damaging winds from storms can bring down trees, branches and powerlines, remove roofs, and blow around outdoor items. Hail and lightning can injure people and damage property, and flash flooding can occur.
Keep your roof in good condition and check it regularly.
Keep gutters and downpipes clear so water can drain away quickly.
Trim trees and branches that overhang your home. Be careful of any overhead powerlines.
Check and fix any corrosion, rotten timber, termite infestations and loose fittings on your home.
Secure, weigh down or put away any loose items around the house, yard or balcony. Items such as potted plants, outdoor furniture, garbage bins, and trampolines can become dangerous missiles.
Fit windows with shutters or metal screens for added protection during high winds.
Contact your local council or energy company if you think trees in your street may pose a threat to your property or power lines.
Check your home, contents and vehicle insurance is up to date and provides suitable coverage.
Identify the strongest room in your home to shelter in during storms and cyclones.
Know where and how to turn off the main supply for water, power, and gas.
If anyone in your house relies on electrical equipment for medical reasons, make a plan in case your power is cut – it may take time to be restored.
Consider any arrangements you will need to make for pets or livestock. Prepare your pets.
Check in with your neighbours in case they need help.
Know where to go for information and warnings.
Tune in to warnings.
Contact family and neighbours to make sure everyone is aware of the warning.
Move indoors, bringing children and pets with you.
Locate your emergency kit.
Park vehicles under cover. If you cannot access cover, park away from trees, power lines, and creeks and cover with firmly tied down blankets to minimise hail damage.
Move outdoor equipment, rubbish, chemicals and poisons to a higher location.
Unplug electrical items, aerials and computer equipment to avoid damage from a power surge.
Prepare torches in case you lose power. If you do, note the time and check your home electrical safety switch to see if it is a wider power outage.
Close windows, shutters and curtains.
Stay inside, away from windows, external doors and skylights until the storm has passed.
If the building starts to break apart, shelter in the strongest room under a mattress or strong table.
If driving, stop clear of trees, powerlines and creeks. If you’re in an urban area, consider parking in a sheltered carpark. Never drive on flooded roads; even a small amount of water can sweep away your vehicle.
During a severe weather event, safety should always be your priority. You need to take notice, seek information, make decisions, and act. Weather warnings are published across many information channels. Remember is to follow the instructions of local authorities and emergency services.
Standard Emergency Warning Signal This siren is used at the start of serious warnings on television and radio. Act immediately on the advice given.
Emergency Alert Warning messages sent to all network mobile and landline phones. Messages will come from 0444 444 444.
Door Knocks Emergency services or local council personnel may visit your area to pass on warnings.
Storms can cause damage to buildings and vehicles and cut access to power and water supplies. Once the storm has passed, you will be able to assess any damage and clean up.
Check your home and property for damage. Take photographs of any damage as proof and contact your insurance provider.
Clean up debris around your home. Check with your local government for advice on disposing of green waste and other materials such as asbestos fencing.
Continue to listen to local radio and check official websites for updated information or instructions.
Stay clear of creeks, drains, causeways, streams, fallen trees, and any damaged buildings.
Check in with your family and neighbours.
Avoid any powerlines brought down during the storm. Be careful of metal fences that may be in contact with the downed lines. Contact your energy provider or call Triple Zero (000) to report the danger and warn others to keep clear.
Never drive, ride, swim or walk in floodwater.
Do not go sightseeing. This can delay emergency services and increase the possibility of accidents.
Only travel through affected areas if necessary.
Contact the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500 if you need emergency assistance with storm damage.
For life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
