Lightning over Brisbane submitted by Robert Mellor
Storms are a part of living in Brisbane, a sub-tropical city. The storm season runs from approximately October until March each year. Thunder and hail storms often develop in the afternoon, moving across from the west. Less common is the threat of a cyclone, but it can happen.
It is best to be prepared in advance and to take steps to stay safe during and after any serious weather events.
When a storm is imminent
Pack away loose items in the backyard, outdoor areas and decks. Kids’ toys, barbecue tools and all sorts of other bits and pieces can become missiles in high winds.
Close windows and doors securely. During storm season close all windows and especially those on the western and southern sides of your home (where the weather prevails) when you leave home each day.
Have a battery powered radio (with working batteries) on hand to listen to safety updates on local radio. Also have access to a torch and basic first aid supplies.
Charge up your mobile phone and laptop computer well before a storm hits. Unplug computers and other appliances in case of lightning strike or power surges.
During a storm
Do not use the phone, except if essential. Stay away from windows and if the storm is very severe, shelter in the strongest, central part of the house (generally a bathroom).
When power is cut
Don’t open your fridge. It will stay cool for hours if not opened and food is less likely to spoil. Have access to a phone that doesn’t require mains power. If you use a walk-around handset, then it won’t work if power is cut. Charge your mobile phone up prior to a storm or plug in an old-fashioned cord telephone. Are your toilet or other taps connected to a water tank that relies on a water pump? Can it be switched to mains water during the power outage? Can you cook dinner (or breakfast!) on your barbecue? The barbecue could also be used to heat water if you need to warm a baby’s bottle.
Check for updates on restoration of power on 13 62 62 or listen to local radio.
Advice from the experts
Read what the Brisbane City Council recommends about prior preparations and coping during and after a storm.
Or take note of what Energex recommends to stay safe during storms.
The Bureau of Meteorology has a checklist for preparing for a cyclone.
Numbers to call
Call 132 500 for SES (State Emergency Service) assistance in severe storms and floods. If the emergency is life threatening, call Triple Zero (000).
During a cyclone, get the latest information from the Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre on 1300 659 212 (for the cost of a local call).
Do NOT go near powerlines which are down. Touching or trimming anything from powerlines can be fatal. To report fallen powerlines phone 13 19 62 - as a priority emergency.
Call 13 62 62 to report power interruptions. If, prior to a storm, you think tree branches need trimming away from power lines, call 13 12 53.
Amazing pictures
View some incredible photos of Brisbane during past storms. Or see and hear the power of a big hail storm in Brisbane on a YouTube video.
