Yesterday's (Sunday 26 October) severe storm activity across the Toowoomba Region provided a timely reminder of the importance of preparing ahead of the summer storm season.
That's the message from Toowoomba Region Mayor and Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, Geoff McDonald, who said clean-up efforts were well underway.
"Yesterday's storms brought thunder and lightning, felled large tress, downed powerlines resulting in wide-spread outages and caused flash flooding to parts of our towns, city and region.
"Council crews are currently out on the ground cleaning up roadsides and public spaces while Ergon crews are working to restore power. I urge homeowners who require assistance to contact the SES on 132 500 and visit Council's Disaster Dashboard for the latest information," Mayor McDonald said.
"The storms were also a timely reminder that residents should prepare their properties for storm season."
Mayor McDonald called on residents to:
- check and clean their roof, gutters and downpipes;
- identify loose objects in their yard such as outdoor furniture and toys that will have to be put away or secured if a storm approaches; and
- pack an emergency kit to set aside that includes torches, spare batteries, a battery-operated radio, canned food, UHT milk and bottled water.
"We all have a role to play in ensuring that we are prepared for whatever nature throws at us," Mayor McDonald said.
"People need to be aware of how quickly the situation can change when a storm hits."
Mayor McDonald said in the case of a severe weather event, the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) would coordinate with relevant emergency services and monitor information and warnings from the State Disaster Coordination Centre and the Bureau of Meteorology.
"Council, and in turn the LDMG, will follow established procedures for disaster response and recovery if required," he said.
"Our top priority is to ensure all residents are safe and well informed about the potential dangers from storms, such as possible flood waters and high winds. It is better to err on the side of caution.
"Motorists are reminded to heed the simple message, 'If it's flooded, forget it'. Please observe any warning signs and drive to the conditions.
"Residents should be vigilant for any fallen powerlines or other hazards in high winds."
There are free resources which residents can access to ensure they are prepared for extreme weather, including Council's Disaster Dashboard and the Queensland Government's Get Ready website.
To find out how you can prepare your home, family, and community please visit: www.getready.qld.gov.au
In a life-threatening emergency call 000 (triple zero) and for emergency flood or storm assistance, call the State Emergency Service on 132 500.
