We are being encouraged to put the finishing touches on our emergency kits and evacuation plans this Get Ready Week.
Residents are being warned the heightened bushfire season isn’t all we should be worried about.
“Even though El Nino and the positive Indian Ocean Dipole have been declared and are likely to increase the chance of heatwaves and fire dangers over the coming months, Queensland is also likely to experience severe thunderstorms that can bring damaging winds, rain and hail,” says Bureau of Meteorology spokesperson Laura Boekel.
“Severe weather is unpredictable and can happen at any time of the year in Queensland so it’s important to stay up to date with the latest forecast and warnings on the Bureau’s website or the BOM Weather app.”
Deputy local controller of the Bundaberg SES Unit Luke Harding says crews have been training throughout the year in preparation, but volunteer numbers are lower than previous years.
“We will be there as soon as we can, but it may be a day or the next day that we can get out to you,” he says.
“We will prioritise jobs, but we will get there are soon as possible. If it is life threatening make sure you ring 000.”
Almost half of all Queenslanders are preparing their home and family by planning what they will do and having supplies to keep them safe and comfortable.
“Make sure you’ve got a plan if your house gets damaged; where you can stay, who you can stay with and who can help you out,” Mr Harding says.
“Preparation is making sure you’ve got an emergency kit for yourself.”
It’s recommended to have long-life food, drinking water, a torch with spare batters and toiletries in case the shops are closed, the water stops or power goes out.
