Essential safety tips for Queensland’s severe thunderstorms
Issued: 16 Jan 6 mins read

When do storms happen in Queensland?

Storm season in Queensland typically runs between November and April each year. While storms can happen at any time during the year, this period generally yields more extreme weather activity.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, severe thunderstorms kick off more in the summer months thanks to the increased solar energy during this period. Thunderstorms need warm, humid air to form – something Queensland has a lot of!

Create a household severe weather emergency plan

A well-thought-out severe weather emergency plan can significantly reduce your risk during a severe thunderstorm. By taking a few simple steps, you can create a plan tailored to your household’s specific needs:

Create the plan: Utilise the Get Ready Queensland Severe Weather Household Emergency Plan to quickly and easily create a personalised plan. If you prefer a traditional approach, you can download and print the PDF version of the plan.

Consider the logistics: When making your plan, there are some key things to consider. Remember that staying home during extreme weather is the best course of action, but also have an evacuation strategy in place if you are not safe at home. Be mindful of how much you can fit in your car if you need to evacuate – this can help you plan what to take and what to leave behind.

Review it regularly: Review your plan at least once a year to ensure it's up-to-date and accurate.

Incorporate pets and livestock: Don't forget to include your pets and livestock in your emergency plan. Develop specific plans for their care and evacuation if necessary.

Pack an emergency kit

Having an emergency kit stocked and ready is a vital safety move for Queensland storm season. Get Ready Queensland has some fantastic advice on what to have handy, including things like a first aid kit, important documents, gloves, tissues, a torch, batteries, toiletries, and more. They’ve curated suggested emergency kit lists in both small and large sizes – you can see the items here.

Secure your property

You may be safe inside your house, but it’s important to remember that wind, rain, and hail can wreak havoc on the outside of your property. There are some easy maintenance steps you can take throughout the year to make your home and yard more storm-proof, as well as some more urgent precautions for when you’ve seen a severe thunderstorm warning.

Year-round maintenance

• Trim trees to remove leaves and branches that are close to buildings.
• Check the roof and gutters are not blocked with leaf litter.
• Clear rubbish from around your home.
• Make sure windows can be sealed to stop water coming inside.
• Store chemicals and poisons up high.
• Check your insurance for correct severe weather coverage.

Before a storm

• Bring indoors or tie down any loose outdoor items like garden furniture, tools, and kids' toys.
• If time allows, pull down any dead or damaged tree branches that could fall and cause damage.
• Close and secure all windows and doors. Consider boarding up windows if necessary.
• Unplug your electronic devices to protect them from power surges.
• Park cars in a garage or undercover to protect them from hail and strong winds.
• Identify where and how to turn off the mains supply for water, power, and gas in case you are instructed to do so by emergency services.

Stay informed

It’s important to stay informed and connected during a severe weather event, as conditions and advice can change instantly. Missing crucial information like flood warnings or evacuation orders can put you in significant danger. Bookmarking weather websites and emergency service contacts, downloading apps, and being aware of emergency alerts means you have the most relevant, trustworthy, and up-to-date information at your fingertips.

You should also familiarise yourself with your local council’s “disaster dashboard” – these are hubs where you can sign up for local weather alerts and disaster information more specific to your area.

Evacuate when advised

Local authorities and emergency services are experts – they are trained to assess risk and minimise casualties during severe weather events. If you receive advice to evacuate, take it seriously. Storms can bring life-threatening hazards like flash flooding, large hail, and strong winds, and sometimes evacuation is the best way to protect yourself. Prioritise your safety, no matter how tempting it may be to stick it out and hold the fort.

Be careful in the aftermath

You may emerge from your shelter after a storm eager to have a look around the neighbourhood, but it’s important to be vigilant of your surroundings. There are some key dangers to keep an eye out for:

Displaced wildlife: For folks in Croc Country, floodwaters can pose the extra risk of hiding crocodiles that have been flushed out of their usual homes. Rapidly moving water can also displace snakes, so it’s vital to steer clear of floodwaters and be extra cautious when moving fallen vegetation.

Avoid downed power lines: Stay far away from downed power lines. Assume they are live and extremely dangerous. Report them immediately to your local utility company.

If it’s flooded, forget it: Whether you’re driving or on foot, floodwaters are a no-go zone. Here in Queensland, driving into floodwater is the number one cause of flood-related deaths. We often think that our car can protect us from all weather conditions – but even in shallow floodwater, your car’s steering, engine, and electrics can stop working, making it extremely difficult to escape. Remember, your car can’t protect you from floodwater.

Check for gas leaks: Your gas system being inundated with water can cause serious issues. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate immediately and contact your gas company.

Keep it clean: Be mindful of potential contamination from floodwaters and maintain good hygiene.

Help your local community: If possible, check on your neighbours, especially the elderly and folks living with disability.

Your hub for natural disasters

The Queensland Government’s Get Ready website has stacks of useful information on how to prepare for (and cope with) severe weather. From cyclones to floods, you can help your household (big or small) be more prepared for any severe weather you may be at risk of.

By understanding the potential dangers of severe thunderstorms and taking proactive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk and protect yourself and your loved ones. Remember, preparation is key. By creating a comprehensive severe weather emergency plan, staying informed about weather conditions, and following safety guidelines, you can weather any storm.