Preparation guidelines for summer storms: essential actions to take
Preparing for Australia's Summer Thunderstorms: A Guide
As the Australian summer of 2023/24 approaches, meteorologists predict an El Niño event, which may bring an increase in thunderstorm activity across the continent. Understanding the factors that contribute to thunderstorm formation and taking appropriate preparatory measures can help mitigate risks associated with these storms.
The Science Behind Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms in Australia are primarily caused by the combination of warm, moist air masses and atmospheric conditions such as the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) in the north and the collision of hot inland air with cooler sea breezes in regions like Perth. These conditions provide the heat and moisture necessary for thunderstorm development, often resulting in intense storms with heavy rain, hail, and strong winds.
In northern Australia, the warm, moist tropical air near the ITCZ creates an environment prone to frequent thunderstorm activity. Conversely, in southern coastal regions like Perth, summer storms arise when hot inland air meets cooler sea air, causing atmospheric instability ideal for thunderstorm formation, including hailstorms. Additionally, phenomena such as cold fronts interacting with mountain ranges can lift warm humid air, triggering severe thunderstorms.
Preparing for Storm Season
To navigate the storm season, individuals can take several practical steps:
- Stay informed: Regularly check weather observations and warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology or local weather services to stay updated on potential storms.
- Prepare your property: Trim trees, clear gutters, secure loose items, and maintain safe access to your home to minimise damage from falling debris during storms.
- Plan for power outages: Have backup power sources, like portable power stations, ready since storms often bring down power lines.
- Create an emergency plan: Know when to seek shelter or evacuate if necessary, especially in bushfire-prone areas or regions prone to flash flooding.
- Protect vulnerable household members: During heatwaves that often accompany summer storms, ensure they stay hydrated and cool.
These preparedness measures help minimise risks from flash flooding, fallen trees, property damage, and power disruptions commonly associated with Australian summer storms.
Staying Safe During Storms
In case of a storm, it's essential to stay tuned to weather updates from reputable sources, such as the Bureau of Meteorology, ABC local radio, the SES, the Vic Emergency app or website. The SES guide can be used to plan and stay safe during a storm.
Severe thunderstorms are classified by the Bureau of Meteorology as those producing heavy rainfall, wind gusts of 90km/h or more, hail of 2cm diameter or more, tornadoes, or any combination of these. Periods of intense storms can trigger thunderstorm asthma, which induces asthma attacks.
Additional Considerations
For every degree of warming, the atmosphere can hold about 7% more moisture, according to the Climate Council. This means that as the climate changes, Australia may experience even more intense thunderstorms.
If going away during storm season, a neighbour or family friend can be asked to check the property. It's also important to check that your home insurance coverage is up to date to ensure adequate protection during these events.
By understanding the science behind thunderstorms and taking appropriate preparatory measures, Australians can better navigate the storm season and stay safe during potentially hazardous weather events.
- The knowledge of environmental science, particularly the factors causing thunderstorms in Australia, is crucial for understanding and preparing for severe weather events during the summer seasons.
- To help mitigate the risks associated with climate-change-induced intense thunderstorms, it's essential to adopt personal-growth strategies such as staying informed about weather forecasting and taking practical precautions like securing loose items and creating emergency plans.
- As the weather becomes more unpredictable due to climate change, it's essential to seek updates from reputable sources like the Bureau of Meteorology for information on potential storms and to make adjustments in education-and-self-development regarding weather-forecasting.
