Council urges residents to be prepared for storms and summer heat

Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) is well prepared to respond, if and when required, to any situation across the region during the summer storm season.

TRC Mayor Paul Antonio is encouraging people right across the region to take simple precautions to get ready for any storms that pass our way and the likelihood of extreme summer heat.

“The Bureau of Meteorology had forecast very hot conditions for parts of southern Queensland in the coming days and remind people to take all necessary precautions.

“Young children, the elderly and people with health problems were most vulnerable, but heat stress could affect anyone. Residents should drink plenty of water (avoid alcohol and caffeine), stay out of direct sunlight and check on neighbours, Mayor Antonio said.

“The Darling Downs also is highly likely to experience thunder, lightning and storms during the peak storm season. The annual rumbling was a timely reminder about the serious side to living in the region.

“Council has been working to make the region a much more resilient Region after the tragic circumstances of the floods in 2011. Council is better prepared than ever for this storm season, but we need residents to be ready as well.

“We all have a role to play in ensuring that we are prepared for whatever nature throws at us.

“People are more aware of how quickly the situation can change when a storm hits.

“If required, the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) would coordinate with relevant emergency services and monitor information and warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology.

“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 are also reminded 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; pack an emergency kit to set aside that includes torches, spare batteries, an emergency radio, canned food, UHT milk, bottled water and provisions for your pets Check full details at www.tr.qld.gov.au/beprepared

“In a life threatening emergency call 000 and for emergency flood or storm assistance, call the State Emergency Service on 132 500.

“Listen to ABC Radio for relevant disaster information updates and warnings.

“Keep up to date on emergency news, power outages and weather warnings and much more on the Toowoomba Region Disaster Dashboard at http://disaster.tr.qld.gov.au”

Advice about TRC road closures will be notified at www.tr.qld.gov.au/roadclosures

For details about coping in extreme heat, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/emergency/dealing-disasters/heatwave