FEATURE - Storm Season!

Image L to R: Lifeguard Steven, Lifesaver Chloe, SC Disaster Management Group Chair Mayor Rosanna Natoli, Queensland Police Service Sunshine Coast Superintendent/District Officer Bradley Inskip, Queensland Police Service Emergency Management Coordinator Sgt Des Neijens, Queensland Police Service District Disaster Executive Officer Senior Sgt Dale Johnson and Lifesaver Matthew

“Schools out for summer, the sun’s out - the surf’s up - the holiday fun has begun!” said Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli, as she joined Surf Life Saving Queensland’s Aaron Purchase, at the Mooloolaba Surf Life Saving Club.

It’s important that visitors and locals stay alert and safe at the beach and in the surf - always swim between the red and yellow flags! 

It’s also important that our homes across the coast and hinterland are protected too.

Summer storms and heatwaves are part of life here, but planning for them helps keep you, your family and your property safe.

Summer holidays on the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland are the best. Glorious beaches, bush walks with mellifluous and dramatic birdsong to accompany you, sub-tropical rainforests which smell glorious and cocoon you in cool shade, waterholes and waterfalls for a refreshing swim – we really do live in paradise. 

But Queensland’s sub-tropical summer also can bring with it wild, stormy afternoons.

“The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting heatwaves and above-average rainfall this season,” said Mayor Natoli.

“If you’re new to the Coast, or visiting, you might not know what to expect when the sky starts rumbling. As locals we’re used to our storm season - we’ve already had a few storms hit our region this season - but this is your reminder to be prepared for the next ones, too."

For up-to-date information and links to key emergency services in one location, stay informed with Sunshine Coast Council’s Disaster Hub (disasterhub.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/#Dashboard).

The Disaster Hub includes weather and beach condition warnings, road closures, airport updates, traffic cameras, flood mapping and current warnings.

Mayor Natoli said storms could bring with them the risk of losing power and flash flooding.

“Make sure you have everything you and your family may need in case you lose power or are cut off by flood water or fallen trees. Always check the Disaster Hub before, during and after a storm before heading out.

“This summer the BOM is warning we will experience higher humidity and temperatures with warmer nights,” Mayor Natoli continued.

“Be sun smart by wearing a hat, sunscreen and light, loose clothing, as well as drinking lots of water - at least six glasses a day.  

“Remember to watch for heat illness signs, which are: dizziness, nausea, confusion, and rapid pulse and always call 000 in an emergency. And don’t forget your pets! Remember to provide them with water and shelter.”

Remember - if it’s flooded forget it. “Locals may know what road are impacted in low lying areas but visitors and those new to the Coast should check the disaster hub after a storm before heading out,” Mayor Natoli said.

“Flooding can take you by surprise, making some roads too dangerous to use. Remember your car can’t protect you.

“A small amount of floodwater is all it takes for your engine and electrics to fail. Stay off the roads and consider if travel is necessary.

“Have fun this summer but stay safe, too.”