Flood information - links

[Stillwater]

Hey Ms Trad .... Been to the 'City Deals' conference in London? .... SHOW US THE SOLUTION!!   

[ozbob]

Flood height notice on ramp from platforms 1 & 2 Ipswich rail station.







Photographs R Dow 13th October 2016

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Somerset hydro-electric plant to be restarted

The Somerset Hydro-Electric Plant will finally be back in action next year after being inundated in the January 2011 flood.

Energy and Water Supply Minister Mark Bailey said an $11.6 million restoration of the plant would increase Seqwater's capacity to produce renewable energy for the state's electricity grid.

Once refurbished, the plant will generate electricity from the regulated flow of water from Somerset Dam into Wivenhoe Dam.

The plant first generated power in 1954 but has not been operational since the 2011 flood.

"A comprehensive study was undertaken post-flood, which identified a rebuild of the plant as the best option for its future," Mr Bailey said.

"The plant will be restored to virtually as-new condition, including automatic control with remote interface."

Mr Bailey said the restoration would increase the capacity of the plant from 3.2 to 4.1 megawatts.

"Hydro-electricity is the second largest source of large-scale renewable energy in Queensland, with over 200 megawatts of installed capacity," he said.

"Somerset Dam will remain one of the region's major drinking water storages with the added benefit of being able to produce green energy for south-east Queensland."

Seqwater acting chief executive officer Jim Pruss said the hydro-electric plant would be able to operate up to 24 hours a day as required.

"The operation of the plant will be based on dam levels, rainfall and potential inflows into the dams, which Seqwater closely monitors," Mr Pruss said.

"The original turbine casing that was installed in 1954 will be retained within the refurbished plant."

The turbine will be redesigned for increased output and a new generator and control system will be installed for reliability and remote operation.

The refurbished plant is expected to be working in the first half of 2017.

Hydro-electric powerplants capture the energy of falling water to generate electricity.

A turbine converts the kinetic energy of falling water into mechanical energy.

Then a generator converts the mechanical energy from the turbine into electrical energy.

[ozbob]

Media Statement

Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Somerset Dam to produce renewable energy for SEQ again

A major refurbishment of the Somerset Hydro-Electric Plant will increase Seqwater's capacity to produce renewable energy for the state's electricity grid.

Energy and Water Supply Minister Mark Bailey said once refurbished, the plant would generate electricity from the regulated flow of water from Somerset Dam into Wivenhoe Dam.

"The plant, which first generated power in 1954, has not been operational since it was inundated by the January 2011 floods," Mr Bailey said.

"A comprehensive study was undertaken post-flood which identified a rebuild of the plant as the best option for its future. The plant will be restored to virtually as-new condition, including automatic control with remote interface.

"Key innovations have been provided through the use of 3D Computational Fluid Dynamics to maximise power output and efficiency gains from the refurbished plant. This means a far more effective and efficient plant."

Mr Bailey said the $11.6 million restoration, once completed, would increase the capacity of the plant from 3.2 to 4.1 megawatts, adding to Queensland's renewable energy generation.

"Hydro-electricity is the second largest source of large-scale renewable energy in Queensland, with over 200 megawatts of installed capacity," Mr Bailey said.

"Hydro-electric generators provide a reliable source of power that can be dispatched when required.

"Somerset Dam will remain one of the region's major drinking water storages with the added benefit of being able to produce green energy for South East Queensland."

Acting Seqwater Chief Executive Officer Jim Pruss said the hydro-electric plant would be able to operate up to 24 hours a day as required.

"The operation of the plant will be based on dam levels, rainfall and potential inflows into the dams which Seqwater closely monitors," Mr Pruss said.

"The original turbine casing that was installed in 1954 will be retained within the refurbished plant.

"The refurbishment works will include the redesign of the original turbine for increased output and efficiency, and installation of a new generator and control system to provide reliability and remote operation.

"This project is yet another step in the Palaszczuk Government managing the transition to a clean energy future and 50 per cent renewable energy by 2030 in Queensland."

The refurbished plant is expected to be operational in the first half of 2017.

For more information about Seqwater and its services, visit www.seqwater.com.au.

How hydropower works

Hydropower plants capture the energy of falling water to generate electricity. A turbine converts the kinetic energy of falling water into mechanical energy. Then a generator converts the mechanical energy from the turbine into electrical energy.

About Seqwater

Seqwater ensures a safe, secure and reliable bulk drinking water supply for 3.1 million people across South East Queensland, and supplies water for irrigation to about 1,200 rural customers. Seqwater also provides essential flood mitigation services and manages popular lake recreational areas visited by almost 2.6 million people each year. The organisation is one of Australia's largest water businesses, with operations extending from the New South Wales border to the base of the Toowoomba ranges and north to Gympie.

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DAMAGING WIND

For people in the Ipswich, Logan, Scenic Rim, Gold Coast, Redland City, Brisbane City and parts of the Somerset, Southern Downs, Lockyer Valley and Moreton Bay Council Areas.

Issued at 4:20 pm Monday, 17 October 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 4:20 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Laidley and Gatton. These thunderstorms are moving towards the east. They are forecast to affect Ipswich, Boonah and Esk by 4:50 pm and Brisbane CBD, Beaudesert, Beenleigh, Logan City and Strathpine by 5:20 pm.

Damaging winds are likely.

90km/h at Dalby at 3pm.
93km/h at Wellcamp Airport at 3:30pm.

[ozbob]

BOM Radar 1624 17th October 2016]
http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDR663.loop.shtml#skip

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

For people in the
Ipswich and parts of the
Somerset,
Scenic Rim and
Brisbane City Council Areas.

Issued at 3:10 pm Tuesday, 8 November 2016.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds and large hailstones in the warning area over the next hour.

Locations which may be affected include Ipswich, Esk and the area northwest of Esk.

[ozbob]

Severe storms with golf ball sized hail and damaging gusts in #SEQLD. Storms approaching Archerfield. Updates: https://t.co/FBmpsInT9o pic.twitter.com/RcGDsTmC7u

— BOM Queensland (@BOM_Qld) November 8, 2016

Moderate hail at Goodna now.

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office
TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DAMAGING WINDS, HEAVY RAINFALL and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in parts of the
Scenic Rim and
Gold Coast Council Areas.

Issued at 3:25 pm Wednesday, 9 November 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 3:25 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Mount Barney and Maroon Dam. These thunderstorms are moving towards the southeast. They are forecast to affect Border Ranges National Park and Rathdowney by 3:55 pm.

Damaging winds, heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and large hailstones are likely.

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DAMAGING WINDS, HEAVY RAINFALL and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in parts of the
Scenic Rim and
Gold Coast Council Areas.

Issued at 4:25 pm Wednesday, 9 November 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 4:25 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near the area south of Canungra and Lamington National Park. These thunderstorms are moving towards the east to southeast. They are forecast to affect Numinbah Valley and Little Nerang Dam by 4:55 pm.

Damaging winds, heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and large hailstones are likely.

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office
TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DAMAGING WINDS and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in parts of the
Scenic Rim and
Gold Coast Council Areas.

Issued at 3:12 pm Thursday, 10 November 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 3:15 pm, very dangerous thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Tweed Heads(NSW) and waters off Tweed Heads. These thunderstorms are moving towards the northeast. Other severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Tallebudgera and the area south of the NSW border. They are forecast to affect Coolangatta and Miami by 3:45 pm.

Damaging winds and large hailstones are likely.

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DAMAGING WINDS and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in the Ipswich, Logan, Scenic Rim, Lockyer Valley, Gold Coast and parts of the Somerset, Southern Downs, Toowoomba and Brisbane City Council Areas.

Issued at 2:00 pm Saturday, 12 November 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 2:00 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Boonah, the area northwest of Cunninghams Gap and the area northwest of Toowoomba. These thunderstorms are moving towards the east to northeast. They are forecast to affect Beaudesert and Laidley by 2:30 pm and Ipswich and Beenleigh by 3:00 pm.

Damaging winds and large hailstones are likely.

[ozbob]

Nice moderate rain at Goodna

http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDR663.loop.shtml

12 Nov 2016 1454h

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DAMAGING WINDS and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in parts of the
Gympie and
Noosa Council Areas.

Issued at 1:59 pm Sunday, 13 November 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 2:05 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar to the west of Gympie. These thunderstorms are moving towards the east and are forecast to affect the ranges between Gympie and Murgon by 2:35 pm and possibly Gympie by 3:05 pm.

Damaging winds and large hailstones are likely.

[ozbob]

1893 Flood height markers at Ipswich railway station - there were two flood peaks in 1893 - 4th February peak was the higher of the two.









Photographs R Dow 16th November 2016

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Brisbane flood-resistant ferry terminals win top Australian engineering award

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for HEAVY RAINFALL

For people in parts of the
Redland City,
Brisbane City and
Moreton Bay Council Areas.

Issued at 6:55 am Saturday, 26 November 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 7:00 am, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Brisbane Airport and Nudgee. These thunderstorms are slow moving. They are forecast to affect Boondall, Sandgate and Brighton by 7:30 am.

Heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding is likely.

80 mm of rainfall fell in the hour to 6am at Ransome, near Manly.

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DAMAGING WINDS, HEAVY RAINFALL and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in parts of the
Logan and
Scenic Rim Council Areas.

Issued at 2:12 pm Sunday, 27 November 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 2:15 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Beaudesert. These thunderstorms are moving towards the northwest. They are forecast to affect Tamborine by 2:45 pm and Jimboomba by 3:15 pm.

Damaging winds, heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and large hailstones are likely.

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for LARGE HAILSTONES, DAMAGING WINDS and HEAVY RAINFALL

For people in the
Lockyer Valley and parts of the
Toowoomba Council Areas.

Issued at 6:02 pm Sunday, 27 November 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 6:05 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar. Thunderstorms are moving towards the north. They are forecast to affect the area south of Helidon by 6:35 pm and Grantham and Helidon by 7:05 pm.

Large hailstones, damaging winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding are likely.

[ozbob]

29th November 2016

JOINT STATEMENT
Premier and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Deputy Premier, Minister for Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning and Minister for Trade and Investment
The Honourable Jackie Trad

Turnbull Government to reimburse $1 billion disaster funding owed to Queensland

The Turnbull Government has finally conceded it will pay Queensland $1 billion in disaster relief funding.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the long awaited release of the funds follows the finalisation of unprecedented assurance work undertaken at the request of the Federal Government for events dating back as far as 2006.

"The decision to withhold this funding was a political move made in the dead of the night and sprung on my government and Queensland councils in the Federal Budget papers," Ms Palaszczuk said.

"Despite the Queensland Audit Office signing off on our claim, the Commonwealth insisted on a protracted and unnecessary process to tell us what we already knew, that our claim for disaster reconstruction funding was legitimate.

"Their own independent report has found Queensland has implemented a strong framework to administer NDRRA and has supported the findings of the Queensland Audit Office in relation to these claims.

"This is a vindication of the assurance processes undertaken by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority and the hard work of disaster impacted councils that strive to meet the increasingly complex eligibility requirements of the Commonwealth while rebuilding their communities."

Deputy Premier Jackie Trad said the move to withhold the funds was unprecedented and wanted an assurance from the Turnbull Government that the state and local councils would not be blindsided again in the next Budget.

"It feels like Christmas has come early for Queensland. It's about time the Turnbull Government agreed to pay the lion's share of money owed to Queensland," Ms Trad said.

"Queensland has more natural disasters than any other state. Our communities and councils worked hard to get back on their feet after the devastation of events like Cyclone Oswald in the Bundaberg region, Cyclone Ita in North Queensland and Cyclone Marcia in Central Queensland.

"Their decision to withhold disaster funding, combined with their refusal to reimburse their share of plant and equipment costs for reconstruction projects has shaken councils' faith in the NDRRA process.

"With the next claim for reimbursement due to be submitted early next year, the Turnbull Government must provide some certainty for state and local governments on the rules they intend to apply for this and future events.

"Queensland cannot wait until Federal Budget night to find out if and when it will receive reimbursement for the disaster reconstruction funding to which it is entitled."

Relative to the $1,056 million that was expected when the 2014-15 Claim was made, the $997 million reflects:

    The release of $43 million in advance funding Queensland had received for prior events, which is yet to be allocated in accordance with EMA advice;
    $9 million in unresolved submissions supported by the QRA, still to be assessed by EMA; and
    $7 million for minor adjustments and corrections - this makes up 0.08% of the total program.

[verbatim9]

Brisbanetimes --> Brisbane flood-resistant ferry terminals win top Australian engineering award

^^Be nice to have a cleaner River system. I went for a walk yesterday Arvo/Eve along the River @ The Botanical Gardens, it was low tide and noticed alot of empty plastic drink containers and other rubbish amongst the Mangroves   "A year to go and the deposit scheme for plastic drink containers and cans will be introduced into Qld. Alongdside ban of single use Plastic Supermarket and convenience store carrier bags.

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20041.html

IDQ20041
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING
for DAMAGING WINDS and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in parts of the
Southeast Coast Forecast District.

Issued at 4:30 pm Tuesday, 29 November 2016.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds and large hailstones in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Boonah and Beenleigh.

Severe thunderstorms are no longer occurring in the Darling Downs and Granite Belt district and the warning for this district is CANCELLED.

[ozbob]

30th November 2016

Media Release
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

New app to help South East Queenslanders during the wet season

For the first time, South East Queenslanders will be able to stay up-to-date with the latest news on the region's water supply and spilling dams – all at the touch of a screen.

The free Seqwater mobile app - unveiled by Water Supply Minister Mark Bailey at Parliament today - provides the latest information about dam releases and water supply levels across the authority's 26 dams.

Minister Bailey said as well as dam notifications, the app also sources critical alerts and warnings for severe weather, tsunamis and bushfires based on your GPS location and gives users important recreation safety and lake closure alerts.

"This app will prove valuable in helping people stay informed and safe, especially over the summer - the traditional wet season," Mr Bailey said.

"Users are able to select which dams they would like to be notified of in terms of controlled water releases or spilling dams or which recreation lakes they would like to receive safety alerts about,'' Mr Bailey said.

"Having access to this kind of accurate and up to date information will help them stay safe during severe weather and assist people in planning visits to our lakes and dams.

"This app will join the already available SunWater app, which provides communities with the latest information, including operational updates and emergency preparedness notifications in regional areas."

Minister Bailey said the Water Legislation (Dam Safety) Amendment Bill 2016 was also being introduced to Parliament today and would further safeguard Queenslanders against the safety risks associated with dams.

"The government is serious about dam safety," Mr Bailey said.

"These important safety measures are in response to the 2015 Inspector-General of Emergency Management's review of Seqwater and SunWater warning communications, which I commissioned last year, and which highlighted the need for changes to dam safety emergency management procedures.

"The bill applies to the 105 water storage dams located across the State which are known to pose a risk to people, including locally and State owned facilities.

"It includes amendments which give clearer role definitions for dam owners and managers to better manage emergencies and to simplify the regulation of small dams."

The Bill also improves integration of dam safety planning with general emergency management planning. It reinforces the important role local governments play in community safety, and it better focusses safety management on large dams where the consequences of things going wrong would be likely to be greatest.

Minister Bailey said the Palaszczuk Government, Seqwater and SunWater had already made a number of administrative and operational improvements in response to the review.

"These improvements will be underpinned by the legislation to provide clearer role definitions for all dam owners so that they can better manage the safety of their dam and importantly, the safety of those around it during flooding," Mr Bailey said.

"We know that the failure of a dam can have major consequences, and making these improvements is vital to keeping Queenslanders safe."

South East Queenslanders are encouraged to download the new app or go to www.seqwater.com.au to ensure they register for dam release notifications ahead of summer.

ENDS

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DAMAGING WINDS and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in parts of the
Ipswich,
Logan,
Scenic Rim and
Brisbane City Council Areas.

Issued at 2:26 pm Wednesday, 30 November 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 2:25 pm, very dangerous thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Boonah and Kooralbyn. These thunderstorms are moving towards the north. Very dangerous thunderstorms are forecast to affect the area between Boonah and Beaudesert by 2:55 pm and Peak Crossing, Bundamba Lagoon, Greenbank and Redbank Plains by 3:25 pm.

Damaging winds and very large hailstones are likely.

[ozbob]

On edge of major hail here at Goodna some hail but watch out!
Duck!#qldpol
BOM > https://t.co/CqIMhPtysx pic.twitter.com/g2hAOYXQzi

— Robert Dow (@Robert_Dow) November 30, 2016

[techblitz]

green as here @ archerfield

[ozbob]

green as here @ archerfield

You are in line for some hail by the look of it.  I think Sunnybank and Logan might get belted.

Moderate hail here at Goodna, but really only on the edge of the main core.

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DAMAGING WINDS and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in parts of the Somerset, Southern Downs, Toowoomba, Lockyer Valley, Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay Council Areas.

Issued at 2:43 pm Thursday, 1 December 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 2:45 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near the area northwest of Warwick and Mount Mee. These thunderstorms are moving towards the east to northeast. They are forecast to affect Warwick, the area northeast of Warwick and the area north of Warwick by 3:15 pm and Caboolture, the area southwest of Caloundra and Beerwah by 3:45 pm.

Damaging winds and large hailstones are likely.

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DESTRUCTIVE WINDS, HEAVY RAINFALL and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in parts of the
Scenic Rim Council Area.

Issued at 2:51 pm Saturday, 3 December 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 2:55 pm, very dangerous thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Border Ranges National Park, the NSW border and the area south of the NSW border. These thunderstorms are moving towards the north to northeast. Very dangerous thunderstorms are forecast to affect Mount Barney and Rathdowney by 3:25 pm and Boonah, the area between Boonah and Beaudesert, Maroon Dam, Laravale, Kooralbyn and Lamington National Park by 3:55 pm.

Destructive winds, heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and large hailstones are likely.

[ozbob]

BOM Radar at 4.12pm

http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDR664.loop.shtml  tracking NNE

[ozbob]

BOM Radar 5.30pm  - second storm front tracking NE

http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDR663.loop.shtml#skip

[ozbob]

GOOD MORNING BRISBANE !
BOM
> https://t.co/JOJyW2IEc0
Nice little storm & rain .. lots of lightning ... beware .... pic.twitter.com/qGuqcm3yto

— Robert Dow (@Robert_Dow) December 6, 2016

[ozbob]

http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DAMAGING WINDS, HEAVY RAINFALL and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in parts of the Somerset, Scenic Rim, South Burnett, Toowoomba and Gold Coast Council Areas.

Issued at 3:03 pm Wednesday, 7 December 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 3:05 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near the area south of the NSW border and the area south of Yarraman. These thunderstorms are moving towards the east to northeast. They are forecast to affect Border Ranges National Park, Blackbutt and the area west of Toogoolawah by 3:35 pm and the McPherson Range, Springbrook, Moore, Linville, Lamington National Park and the area south of Canungra by 4:05 pm.

Damaging winds, heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and large hailstones are likely.

[ozbob]

ABC News --> Avoid areas where lightning has struck before

It is storm season in Australia and, while being struck by lightning is considered a rare occurrence, there are several steps people can take to keep safe.

ABC science expert Dr Karl Kruszelnicki said there were roughly 100 lightning strikes every second around the world resulting in about 100 deaths per year.

He said the safest place to be during an electrical storm was indoors.

If you are indoors:

If you are indoors, the Bureau of Meteorology suggests unplugging appliances before the storm hits.

Dr Kruszelnicki said it was particularly important to stay away from telephones during a storm.

"If you have a landline phone connected by a wire to the exchange, lightning can hit anywhere along that line depending on how the wire travels (underground or overground)," Dr Kruszelnicki said.

"Telstra does warn there are cases where people have been harmed using a corded phone.

"You should switch off all your electrical appliances, even switch them off at the circuit board."

The BOM also advises anyone indoors to close all of their windows and doors and to stay away from openings including as fire places.

Dr Kruszelnicki said the safest place to be was in the middle of the building.

    "Sit or huddle in the middle of the room and enjoy the show," he said.

The BOM and Dr Kruszelnicki also advised people not to take a bath because water and metal are electrical conductors.

If you are outside:

The BOM urges people to seek shelter in a vehicle or building if possible.

A man was killed and a woman injured while camping under a tree that was struck by lightning on Mt Warning in northern New South Wales on Tuesday morning.

A farmer from Fernleigh, about 80 kilometres south of Mt Warning, also reported losing five bullocks to a lightning strike in the storms that began on Monday night.

The BOM warns not to shelter under tall objects such as trees or poles.

Dr Kruszelnicki said if no safe shelter was available, people should curl into a ball in a standing position.

"You crouch over so you're about half-a-metre-high and have your feet as close together as possible, so you're a single point of contact," he said.

    "Do not run, do not lie down."

The BOM also urges people in a group to spread out and stay several metres from each other.

Water and objects that conduct electricity (golf clubs, umbrellas and metal fences for example) should also be avoided.
If you are in a vehicle:

Dr Kruszelnicki said a vehicle was safer place to be than outside.

However, he said if you were inside a vehicle you should not touch its walls.

"Inside a car with a body made of metal, that will act as a faraday cage [an earthed metal screen set up to exclude electrostatic and electromagnetic influences]," he said.

"The lightning will hit the car and travel through the car and bypass you.

"But I would stick to the middle of the car and even go to the backseat and hide on the floor, or have the front seats laid flat and stick to the middle.

    "Do not touch anything metal, or the wall of the car."

The BOM advises to keep the vehicle's windows and doors closed, and not to park under trees or other tall objects.

It also urges people to be wary of downed power lines that may be touching their vehicle.
Avoid areas where lightning has struck before

Dr Kruszelnicki said it was important to remember lightning often struck the same location repeatedly.

"They're wrong when they say lightning never strikes twice, in fact the exact opposite is true, lightning likes to strike twice in the same place," he said.

"Suppose you have a mountain, a valley, and wind, it will tend to follow the same pattern year after year.

"In my street in suburban Sydney, my neighbour has had her house struck by lightning through the front window twice in six years.

"A national parks officer in the US has been zapped seven times, the poor bloke."

[ozbob]

15th December 2016
   
Media Release
JOINT STATEMENT
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services and Minister for Corrective Services
The Honourable Mark Ryan

Minister for Communities, Women and Youth, Minister for Child Safety and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence
The Honourable Shannon Fentiman

QLD leads the way in storm and cyclone season preparedness

The Palaszczuk Government today officially launched Queensland's first online portal for disaster victims at the opening of a new $1.1 million Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) State Deployment Centre in Morningside.

Communities Minister Shannon Fentiman said the Community Recovery portal allowed Queenslanders affected by disaster to apply online for financial help.

"These grants are designed to meet people's immediate needs, including accommodation and food," she said.

"But they'll also help with the replacement or repair of whitegoods and other household contents that can be damaged in wild weather.

"This online portal is the first of its kind for any Australian state or territory government, and puts Queensland at the forefront of disaster relief administration worldwide."

Fire and Emergency Services Minister Mark Ryan, who opened the deployment centre with Ms Fentiman, said Queensland was leading the way in the technological and infrastructure realms.

He said the facility was specifically designed for the deployment and coordination of Queensland's emergency services staff, volunteers and equipment when bushfires, floods, cyclones and other emergencies occur locally, nationally and internationally.

"The centre has moved from the previous site at Cannon Hill to this purpose-built and equipped facility, meaning deployment can occur quicker and more efficiently, providing better outcomes for Queenslanders," Mr Ryan said.

"This new site will become the state's logistical hub during disasters, allowing emergency services to work together seamlessly, including QFES' State Emergency Service (SES), Rural Fire Service (RFS) and Fire and Rescue Service (FRS), as well as the Queensland Ambulance Service, Ready Reservists other agencies."

Ms Fentiman said the Ready Reserve program was a workforce of more than 1700 specially trained public servants from 21 Queensland Government agencies.

"These Ready Reservists travel to disaster areas to provide individuals and families with information, personal support, financial assistance and access to other services," she said.

"So they can best help Queenslanders who are in need, we have developed the new DeployMe app to ensure our Ready Reservists have the most up-to-date information on the disaster and recovery effort in the palm of their hands."

Mr Ryan said natural disasters were an unfortunate part of living in this wonderful state, and the Government was focused on improving our emergency prevention, preparation, response and recovery services.

Ms Fentiman today also launched the new Money Ready Toolkit, providing easy-to-use information and resources that enable individuals and families to financially prepare for many common natural and human-made disasters and events.

Information about Community Recovery grants

The Immediate Hardship Assistance grant provides $180 per person, or up to $900 for a family of five or more, to those who are unable to meet their immediate essential needs for temporary accommodation, food, essential clothing and medication.

The new Immediate Hardship Assistance – Essential Services grant provides $150 per person, or up to $750 for a family of five or more, to those directly impacted by the loss of one or more services, such as electricity, gas, water or sewerage, for more than five days.

Queenslanders can access the Community Recovery portal on their mobile, tablet or computer, as well as via the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349, or by visiting a Recovery Hub.

For more information about the Community Recovery online portal visit www.qld.gov.au/communityrecovery

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http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office
TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DAMAGING WINDS and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in the
Ipswich and parts of the
Logan,
Scenic Rim and
Brisbane City Council Areas.

Issued at 1:59 pm Sunday, 18 December 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 2:00 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Aratula. These thunderstorms are moving towards the northeast. They are forecast to affect Harrisville, Peak Crossing and Bundamba Lagoon by 2:30 pm and Ipswich, Amberley and Wacol by 3:00 pm.

Damaging winds and large hailstones are likely.

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Short burst of moderate hail about 10 minutes ago between Redbank/Goodna.

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A very dangerous thunderstorm warning has been issued for the Ipswich region in southeast Queensland. #9News https://t.co/gtk8pQ8YrU pic.twitter.com/3BEvjokSAZ

— Nine News Brisbane (@9NewsBrisbane) December 18, 2016

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Brisbanetimes --> Brisbane weather: UQ storm map shows where they hit most

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http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20038.html

IDQ20038
Bureau of Meteorology
Queensland Regional Office

TOP PRIORITY FOR IMMEDIATE BROADCAST

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING - SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
for DAMAGING WINDS, HEAVY RAINFALL and LARGE HAILSTONES

For people in parts of the
Scenic Rim and
Southern Downs Council Areas.

Issued at 2:34 pm Wednesday, 21 December 2016.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 2:35 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near the NSW border. These thunderstorms are moving towards the north. They are forecast to affect the area south of Cunninghams Gap by 3:05 pm and Maroon Dam and Moogerah by 3:35 pm.

Damaging winds, heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and large hailstones are likely.