The Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) is urging the State’s public to prepare themselves and their properties for more natural disasters.
In a message due to coincide with the recent Get Ready Queensland Week, the QRA said the State could now expect its third La Nina season in a row.
Minister responsible for the Queensland Reconstruction Authority, Steven Miles said Queensland regularly experienced the full gamut of natural disasters, from flooding and cyclones to bushfires, heatwaves and giant hail.
“We’re the most disaster-impacted State in Australia, and the latest forecast signals more rough weather is on the way,” Dr Miles said.
“This is a call for all Queenslanders — it’s vital you and your loved ones are ready for the upcoming disaster season.
He said that since 2011 Queensland had been impacted by almost 100 natural disasters “so it’s a matter of when, not if, the next one will reach us, and before it does every Queenslander needs to ask themselves: Are they ready?”
Get Ready Queensland Ambassador, Johnathan Thurston said there were basic things Queenslanders could do now to ensure they were well prepared ahead of storm season.
“Queenslanders can follow three simple steps: Know your risk, make an emergency plan, and pack an emergency kit,” Mr Thurston said.
“Just grabbing a few extra items next time you’re at the shops is all it takes to stock an emergency kit, to help keep you and your family safe at home.”
Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Mark Ryan said emergency services across the State had been training for the upcoming season and were ready to respond.
“Our paid and volunteer SES and Rural Fire Service personnel, along with our Fire and Rescue firefighters, officers and staff — especially our swift-water rescue technicians — have been spending the past several months honing their skills,” Mr Ryan said.
