Tag Archives: disaster management

Redlands gets a radar


December 19, 2014

Redland City’s the BOM…or will at least get a real-time Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) observation station late next year.

The weather station will be funded through a $150,000 grant from the State Government’s Natural Disaster Mitigation Program after Redland City Mayor Karen Williams lobbied for the funding.

At the moment real-time weather information to Redland City is not available with data delivered from the Brisbane Airport and ‘approximated’ for Redlands. Having local real-time information will be an invaluable resource to Redlands Local Disaster Management Group, as well as residents and visitors to the City.

Council will provide suitable land for the station for BOM to build the station, expected to be fully operational in time for next summer.

You can access Redlands local disaster planning information on the Redlands Disaster Plan website.

NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND BUSHFIRE UPDATE: 10.15am Wednesday 4 December


December 4, 2013

Fifteen Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) crews remain on scene at the bushfire burning approximately 2km south of the Yarraman Mine.

Crews worked through the night to conduct backburning in the area. The fire is burning within containment lines and poses no threat to property.

The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) has closed Blue Lake National Park and Fishermans Road as a precaution.

There is a significant amount of smoke about on Straddie – residents of Amity Point and Dunwich are advised to close windows and doors. Residents suffering from a respiratory condition should keep medication close by.

Motorists are advised to drive carefully and to conditions.

Further advice about Staying safe in smoky conditions can be found in this Queensland Health  fact sheet http://www.health.qld.gov.au/disaster/documents/bushfire-smoke.pdf

Know what to do during a cyclone


December 2, 2013

Media release issued by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services

Cyclones are a part of life in Queensland, and being prepared can make a world of difference between cyclones having a major on minor impact on you.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Lee Johnson said the coastal areas of Queensland were subject to cyclones, however it was possible for some western communities to also feel the impact.

“Only a few years ago Cyclone Yasi was still a cyclone several hundred kilometres inland and other cyclones have dropped significant rainfall on inland areas after crossing the coast” Mr Johnson said.

“Take the time now to contact your local council and determine whether you’re located in a cyclone and storm surge zone so you are aware of what measures you will need in place should a cyclone watch or warning be issued by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM),” Mr Johnson said.

“When the weather system crosses the coastline dropping a large amount of rainfall and moves inland it is not uncommon for the aftermath to be felt by other communities. This was also the case with Ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald in January this year.”

Mr Johnson said it was also important for people to familarise themselves with the types of warnings the BoM would issue in the event of a tropical cyclone.

“When coastal communities are expected to be affected within 48 hours by winds associated with a tropical cyclone the Bureau of Meteorology can issue a series of Tropical Cyclone Watch advices,” he said.

“When the threat is likely to affect the community with 24 hours this advice will be upgraded to a Tropical Cyclone Warning.

“When a cyclone does hit your area it is important to disconnect all electrical appliances, listen to your radio for updates, stay inside and shelter clear of windows in the strongest part of the building and keep your essentials close by.

“Be aware of the eye of the cyclone where it can appear like the system has passed but hasn’t. Always wait for advice from BoM before you go outside.”

Mr Johnson said once the cyclone has crossed the danger was not over.

“You must not go outside until the threat has passed as powerlines, bridges, buildings and trees could be damaged and unstable. You should also check for gas leaks and not use electrical appliances if they’re wet,” he said.

For further information and tips on how to Get Ready and to register for your own personalised step-by-step plan visit www.getready.qld.gov.au.

Storm season continues – be prepared


February 19, 2013

Redland residents are again being urged to prepare for another lashing from Mother Nature, after a severe weather warning was issued by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM).

The BOM warning predicts damaging winds up to 100km per hour over the next 24 hours, with the heaviest of the rainfall probably behind us.

lightning

SEQ Water also advised today that it had started releasing water from Leslie Harrison Dam before it reached full capacity to reduce future flooding.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said that strong winds and higher than average tides, and resulting inundation, were now our main concern.

“Council crews have sand bags and sand available from the South St depot in Thornlands and on Russell and Macleay Island,” Cr Williams said.

To prepare for storms, residents should:

  • Move their car under cover or away from trees.
  • Secure loose outdoor items.
  • Seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees.
  • Beware of fallen trees and powerlines.
  • Avoid driving, walking or riding through flood waters.
  • Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
  • Check your property regularly for erosion or inundation by sea water, and if necessary raise goods and electrical items.
  • For emergency assistance contact the SES on 132 500.

Residents are encouraged to listen to 612 ABC Radio and monitor Council’s website (www.redland.qld.gov.au), Facebook and Twitter.