Cabinet briefed on wet season weather outlook

Queenslanders can expect a hot summer with severe thunderstorms but it is unlikely there will be the widespread flooding of recent years, the Bureau of Meteorology told State Cabinet this morning.

Premier Campbell Newman said Cabinet was briefed on what to expect for the coming wet season.

“The message from the Bureau of Meteorology is that Queenslanders should enjoy the tropical summer, but expect periods of severe weather,” Mr Newman said.

“At this stage, the Bureau is expecting it to be warmer than normal throughout spring and summer and the fire risk remains higher than normal, particularly in the southern inland.

“While floods are a part of the Queensland wet season and we can expect typical periodic flood activity, the Bureau’s outlook suggests widespread floods are less likely.

“The Bureau warns there is the possibility of cyclones forming but not all will cross the coast.

“Queenslanders should prepare for a typical cyclone season as it only takes one crossing the coast to cause danger.”

Mr Newman said it was important that Queenslanders prepared for the wet season and always kept an eye on the weather.

“Now is the time to clear gutters and downpipes, trim trees and overhanging branches and check your home for any defects that need attention,” he said.

Mr Newman said the Queensland Government was continuing to implement recommendations from the Queensland Floods Commission of Inquiry in preparation for the next wet season.

In addition, Cabinet will meet at the Emergency Services Complex in Kedron on Monday 29 October for briefings on Queensland’s disaster management arrangements.

“So many Queenslanders have experienced so much heartbreak at the hands of Mother Nature in recent years,” he said.

“While the early signs for this wet season are more positive, it is still early days and it is vital that we continue to make all the necessary preparations for when natural disasters inevitably strike Queensland again.”

Today’s briefing was an early indicative seasonal outlook only and the forecasts will be more accurate as we draw closer to the wet season.

[ENDS] 24 September 2012

Media Contact: Premier’s Office 07 3224 4500