Gold Coast Storm: How to Prepare for A Storm in Gold Coast

Gold Coast Storm Overview 

Any disrupted condition of an astronomical body's atmosphere, particularly one that affects its surface and strongly suggests severe weather, is called a storm. Strong winds, hail, thunder, lightning, and rain indicate a storm, as with a tropical cyclone. Gold Coast storms typically have a detrimental effect on people's lives and possessions.

Types of Storms

Different types of storms form in the atmosphere, such as thunderstorms, tropical cyclones, tornados, and hurricanes. The only distinction is the properties, destructive powers, and locations of the storms.

Thunderstorms have very turbulent environments. Through the process of convection in the cloud, vast masses of air, water droplets and ice crystals move around at high speed. These particles constantly collide and rub against each other, leading to electrification: think of the sparks we all get while combing dry hair or removing a fibrous sweater.

In Australia, severe thunderstorms are the most frequent and destructive storm kinds, contributing significantly to the overall damage bill. Severe thunderstorms have the potential to destroy entire structures due to trees being blown over or having their trunks snapped.

Extremely destructive weather events called tornadoes can accompany powerful thunderstorms. Although the word "cyclone" is used in meteorology to refer to a weather system with a low-pressure area in the centre around which winds blow clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere and anticlockwise in the Northern Hemisphere, it is more commonly referred to as a whirlwind, twister, or cyclone.

Gold Coast Storm Season

Storm activity peaks in May and November on the Gold Coast, or the region south of the equator, where storm season runs from April to December. The waters are warmer during these periods, which is what a storm requires to form.

Past Gold Coast Storms

Any time is dangerous for severe weather and flash floods, but October through March is our wet season. The following are some of the hazardous storms on the Gold Coast.

1954s: On February 20 1954, a tropical cyclone crossed over Coolangatta. While the hurricane occurred when weather patterns were unnamed, The Great Gold Coast Cyclone was unofficially named. Severe structural damage to buildings occurred on the Gold Coast, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast. 

2018s: On October 18 and December 22 2018, the Gold Coast got hit with supercell storms that produced hail the size of golf balls and damaging winds. Giant hailstones were reported in several coastal suburbs, including Southport, Biggera Waters, Runaway Bay, Parkwood, Pacific Pines, Gilston, Surfers Paradise, and Labrador.

2023s: An electrical storm is seen at Reedy Creek on the Gold Coast on Monday, December 25, 2023. A woman has died after being struck by a tree after winds of 100 kph lashed the Gold Coast, bringing down trees and powerlines.

Gold Coast Storm Warnings

Despite its reputation for having beautiful weather, the Gold Coast is nonetheless susceptible to dangerous storms, heat waves, cyclones, bushfires, and floods. Being ready is your best protection against any natural calamity.

Therefore, to be informed and stay connected with real-time notifications before, during, and following catastrophic situations, you may subscribe to Gold Coast alerts on the city dashboard. This covers weather alerts, power disruptions, and road closures.

The BOM issues various alerts, such as severe thunderstorms, cyclones, and flood warnings. Understanding the differences between these warnings is crucial since each has unique advice and preventive steps.

Gold Coast Important Numbers & Websites

Here are some valuable contacts to have in case of a severe storm on the Gold Coast, including phones, websites, social media profiles, and radio stations.

(Data Source: City of Gold Coast)

How to Prepare for A Storm on Gold Coast?

Queensland is Australia's most disaster-prone state, and numerous natural catastrophes exist on the Gold Coast. The stunning subtropical climate of the Gold Coast may occasionally be surprising. Severe storms with big hail, strong gusts, and heavy rain can strike the Gold Coast anytime. 

Being ready may help protect your home, belongings, and loved ones from dangerous storms, cyclones, floods, and wildfires. This section will explain how to storm-proof your Gold Coast home.

Step 1: Stay Informed

Keeping abreast of weather updates is the first step in storm preparedness. Subscribe to weather alerts, bookmark the BOM website and download weather apps to receive timely information. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) app is accessible on the app store.

You can also access the Gold Coast Disaster and Emergency Dashboard; understanding the forecast can help you plan and take necessary precautions well in advance.

Step 2: Prepare An Emergency Kit

An emergency bag is essential in the event of a natural disaster. It provides items that you might need in case of a power outage or an emergency evacuation from your home. When packing your box, think about how you would survive if you were cut off from the internet, drinking water, power, and other necessities for up to three days.

The following things are in the Gold Coast storm emergency kit:

What's in your emergency kit:

• Aportable radio with extra batteries
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• First aid kit (including goods required for your home)
• Waterproof matches and candles
• Important documents with emergency phone numbers on them
• A duplicate of any emergency plans for the house
• A waterproof purse for essential items

Jackery Solar Generators provide a dependable and environmentally responsible solution for powering critical electronics during storms or emergencies. Their portability, solar charging capabilities, and diverse power outputs can dramatically improve your ability to stay connected, safe, and prepared in severe weather.

Step 3: Develop An Evacuation Plan

Learn the locations of the local shelters and evacuation routes. Establish a family emergency plan that identifies meeting locations and means of communication. To protect your family and your safety, immediately comply with any evacuation instructions the authorities may issue.

To make an evacuation plan, you must first know what extreme weather conditions you face. You can contact your community and good friends or neighbours. You can also record the valuables in your home and clean up the trees, weeds and garbage around your home.

You can first download the Household Severe Weather Emergency Plan (PDF) from the Queensland Government's official website when preparing an evacuation plan. It will provide you with detailed and vital evacuation information, help you identify the essential items needed for evacuation in extreme weather, and provide you with relevant community contact information. Please get in touch with them when you need help.

You should review your emergency plan at least once a year. It is essential to keep information up to date.

Download Storm Emergency Plan PDF >>

Step 4: Protect Your Home & Property

To lessen the effect of severe weather on your home, use this checklist:

• Make sure your roof is in good shape by checking it regularly.
• If there are any tree branches near your home, make plans to have them removed.
• Maintain drains, downspouts, and gutters unambiguous.
• Find any loose items in your yard or on your balcony, including toys and outdoor furniture, that you must lock or store if a storm is approachi Also, ensure that all awnings, sails, and blinds are fastened securely.
• Keep your car hidden.
• Make sure your auto, house, and contents insurance are sufficient and up to date.
• Find the room that is the safest to hide during a storm.
• Discover how to switch off gas, water, and electricity securely.

Take the time to secure your property against potential storm damage. Secure outdoor furniture and garden tools, and trim overhanging branches. Inspect your roof for any damage or areas of concern. A quick walk around your property can make a significant difference.

Step 5: Plan for Your Pets

Making a plan in advance can help you save crucial time that might save your pet's life. Your home's emergency and evacuation strategy should be customized based on the quantity and kind of animals you own.

Verify that the information on your pet's microchip is current and that your pet is registered with the local council. Make sure they also wear a collar that has your information on it. Ensure that carriers, leads, horse floats, and other necessities are easily accessible.

Research evacuation centres to ensure you can take your pets, or check with family and friends who live outside your local area to see if they can look after them. If you cannot get home during a natural disaster, pre-arrange with friends who live close by or neighbours to collect and care for your pets at their place until you can return or be reunited.

If you must leave your pets behind, try to keep them indoors in places with tiny or no windows (such as a laundry room or bathroom) and ensure they have enough food and drink in big, heavy bowls. Do not bind them if they are left outside.

Step 6: Protect Your Caravan or Boat

While it won't physically protect your caravan or boat during a storm, it's good to have peace of mind no matter what happens. Whether your van is worth $20,000 or $100,000, it pays to have cover in case anything happens. You want to learn this one in a manageable way.

With storm season fast approaching, planning is a good idea to ensure you don't have to get into a queue with other caravanners trying to book into local caravan repair centres. Especially if you have a trip planned for just around the corner. Plan and take action now to protect your vehicle, caravan and boat from severe weather.

If you want to know more preparation plans for emergencies, we also have the following:

• How to prepare for a bushfire in Australia
• How to prepare for a cyclone in Australia
• How to prepare for the Sydney storm

Jackery Solar Generators for Gold Coast Storms

Jackery Solar Generators provide dependable and portable power options that might be especially useful during a Gold Coast storm or other emergency. These generators use solar energy to offer clean and sustainable electricity, allowing you to charge essential devices and keep critical systems operational when regular power sources are unavailable.

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus

Jackery has unveiled the Solar Generator 2000 Plus, a cutting-edge portable power solution with exceptional performance. Thanks to its substantial capacity and formidable power output, this device can sustain the operation of standard domestic appliances for several weeks in a storm or other emergency.

The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus allows adding extra battery packs, which boosts the capacity from 2 kWh to a remarkable 12 kWh, thus enhancing the solar charging capabilities significantly. With the ability to be expanded to 3000W, this solar product offers a 30% higher rated power than other 2 kWh solar goods available in the market.

The Explorer 2000 Plus is an industry's pioneering add-on battery pack that can be recharged using solar panels. This feature enhances versatility, improves charging efficiency, and reduces charging time. The LiFePO4 battery, with its sophisticated technology, guarantees a lifespan of 10 years, even with daily usage limited to once per day.

• Massive Battery Capacity: With a whopping 2042.8Wh capacity, powered by LFP (LiFePO4 battery) cell chemistry, you can keep your devices running for more extended periods without worrying about running out of juice.
• High-Powered Outputs: Enjoy up to 3000W of continuous AC power, 100W of USB-C power, and Quick Charge 3.0 technology for rapid charging.
• Fast Charging: Say goodbye to long waits for recharging. With the included AC adapter, you can fully recharge the Explorer 2000 Plus in just 1.7 hours, ensuring minimal downtime between adventures.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus is the best portable power supply for home and outdoor life due to its exceptional output (1264Wh). It can aid in home emergencies and other circumstances. It is the all-in-one solar generator for your life due to its versatility and size. 

Supports up to three additional battery packs, bringing the total capacity to 5kWh and providing 1-3 days of home backup power. A solar generator can power your communication devices, medical equipment, and outdoor appliances, bringing comfort and convenience. 

The Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus portable power station, with a 10-year lifespan and a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, provides a consistent voltage and pure sine wave to ensure the safety of all your electrical gadgets.

Additionally, the innovative ChargeShield technology and consistent power delivery avoid equipment damage.

• ChargeShield Technology: The innovative ChargeShield technology and consistent power delivery avoid equipment damage.
• Ultra-Fast Solar Charging: Advanced IBC Technology, Fast Solar Charge in 4.5 Hours with Solar Panel 100W*4.
• Intelligent Control: With the advanced APP feature, via WiFi or Bluetooth.

What Should You Do During A Gold Coast Storm?

Thunderstorms with destructive winds, lightning, hail, heavy rain and flash flooding can threaten lives and cause severe damage to your property, sometimes with little warning. The Bureau of Meteorology only issues warnings for storms that may endanger lives and property.

If a warning is issued:

• Stay listening to your local ABC Radio station, and check your local ABC Facebook page for updates, warnings and advice.
• Search for BOM storm warnings on your location's ABC Emergency Incident Map.
• Check your local BOM radar to see where the storm is now.
• Stay indoors and keep away from windows while storm conditions are severe.
• Unplug your modem. When lightning strikes the node, it causes an electrical surge inside the house that can destroy your router or modem.
• Keep your emergency kit handy in case you lose power.
• Driving in storms can be challenging; move slowly and turn on your headlights. Look out for hazards like downed power lines, fallen trees or branches.
• Never drive into water over roads.

What Should You Do After A Gold Coast Storm?

In this section, we will tell you what to do after storms on the Gold Coast from three aspects: severe storms, floods and bushfires, to minimize the storm's impact on you, your property, the people around you and the environment.

Severe Storms

• Clear your roof and gutters from leaves and tree branches.
• Check on your neighbour before or after a storm.
• Never pick up a fallen power line.
• Never swim at a closed beach.

Floods

• If it's flooded, forget it. Leave it alone and contact the SAS.
• It only takes a small amount of water to wash your car off the road in a flash flood. Don't risk getting behind the wheel!
• Make alternative plans if the road to your home requires you to drive across rivers or creeks.
• If your property is likely to be isolated in a flood, stock up on non-perishables.

Bushfires

• Trim overhanging tree branches and bushes around the home.
• Clear potential fire fuel near your property, such as wood piles, boxes and petrol cans.
• Make sure you have sufficient water supply.
• Ensure valuables are in a safe and easy-to-access location.

Gold Coast Storm FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about the Gold Coast storms:

1. Is there a cyclone coming to the Gold Coast today?

For the most up-to-date information on cyclone activity in the Gold Coast region, it is essential to watch official weather predictions and updates from dependable sources like the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). This is because weather conditions may change quickly.

2. Does the Gold Coast get storms?

Due to Queensland's subtropical climate, storms occur on the Gold Coast, especially in the summer. These storms can deliver hail, powerful gusts, lightning, and much rain.

3. Will Cyclone Kirrily hit Rockhampton?

It is recommended that official updates and warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and appropriate emergency agencies be reviewed to ascertain the probable effect of Cyclone Kirrily on Rockhampton. Keeping informed from reliable sources is critical because cyclone tracks and intensity are subject to change.

4. What months are cyclone seasons in Queensland?

The cyclone season in Queensland typically runs from November to April, with the highest likelihood of cyclone activity occurring between January and March. During this time, residents and authorities closely monitor weather patterns and prepare for potential cyclone impacts.

Final Thoughts

During Gold Coast's storm season, citizens' safety and well-being must be prioritized. You can confidently handle the storm season by being educated, creating an emergency kit, making an evacuation plan, and safeguarding your house, belongings, and pets.

By taking these precautions, you and your loved ones' lives are protected in addition to your possessions. Recall that being ready for everything is essential to surviving a storm. Also, prepare a Jackery Solar Generator to charge essentials with solar energy and 100% safety.