ARE you prepared for storm season in Toowoomba?

Toowoomba residents began preparing for the storm season early this year with a series of  spectacular light shows kicking off an early start to the spring/summer storm season in south-east Queensland.

Don't get caught out and use our handy storm safety checklist to ensure you and your family are prepared.

Storm Safety Checklist

Prior to storm season

Check you have no loose items in your yard that could become airborne and ensure overhanging branches are cut back. Do Not cut branches of trees that are located anywhere near powerlines. Call ENERGEX for assistance.

Common objects around the home that could become dangerous in a storm:

• outdoor furniture and umbrellas
• garden tools
• outdoor toys and bikes
• overgrown branches that may cause damage to structures
• overladen gutters with leaves and sticks
• loose roofing or fencing

Make sure you have a battery-operated torch and radio that are both working and locate them somewhere close to hand for emergencies. Make sure you have spare batteries.

Ensure your lap top computer is fully charged so that it can run on batteries to allow you to access storm information such as power outages and updates via your computer.

Having access to a phone that does not require mains power is important so you can maintain contact during the storm.

During the storm itself

If power is lost during a storm make sure you turn off all electrical items at the wall to avoid power surges that may damage your electrical appliances.

Tune in to your local radio station for updates on the storm.  For general storm information visit the Bureau of Meteorology.

Use your torch for light as the live flame of a candle can be dangerous if accidentally knocked over or left unattended.

If any electrical items are wet or damp these should not be used, to avoid electrical shock or fires.

After the storm has passed

Do not go near fallen powerlines as they could be live.  Report any fallen lines.

Ensure people are aware of any dangerous situations.

If you need assistance with damage or injury caused by the storm contact the State Emergency Service office on 132 500.

You can track storms with the ENERGEX Lightning Tracker or maybe you would like to assist the Bureau of Meteorology and become a storm spotter. This community network of storm spotters observe and report on thunderstorms to Bureau of Meterology forecasting offices.

Need to know about your local weather?

Toowoomba Regional Forecast Telephone Service
QLD Western Districts Service 1900 969 927
Telephone Weather Services Call Charges:
1900 numbers: 77c per minute incl. GST; 1300 numbers: Low call cost - around 27.5c incl. GST.
(More from international, satellite, mobile or public phones)

Precipitation Outlook for Australia and New Zealand (10 day maps)

Soil Moisture outlook for Australia and New Zealand

Daily Rainfall Bulletin - Toowoomba

Drought reports - rainfall deficiency maps

Meteorology reports for people on the land - Silo

Pasture growth and grass fire risk