Tasmanians are being urged to pay attention to dangerous weather warnings and forecasts, with intense rainfall expected across parts of the south and east of the state from Thursday night until Saturday.
The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting the most severe weather will occur on Friday, during the day.
There may be rainfall of up to 100mm with potential severe thunderstorm activity, possible heavy snowfall across parts of the Central Highlands, as well as damaging winds of about 100km/h (mainly in coastal areas) and damaging surf that may lead to coastal erosion and infrastructure damage.
Tasmania SES Acting Director Leon Smith said people needed to prepare for the possibility of significant flash flooding and riverine flooding.
“For potential weather events like this it’s important that people are prepared,” he said.
“This means knowing your flood risk and understanding whether your street and home is prone to flash flooding.”
“We don’t know exactly how the weather conditions will eventuate, which is why it’s so important that people closely monitor the forecast and warnings.”
“As well as river rises, flash flooding can occur in urban areas when stormwater drains exceed their capacity.
“There is also a high chance of trees coming down given the wind which may lead to power outages, so people need to be prepared and should exercise caution if they are out and about, especially when driving.
“And if you come across floodwater while driving, never drive, walk, or ride through it – if the road is flooded, forget it.”
SES advises people in these areas to do the following to prepare:
- Check bom.gov.au for the latest weather forecast and warnings
- Check that family and neighbours, especially those who are vulnerable, are aware of warnings and have a plan in place
- Be prepared for flash-flooding
- Clear drains and gutters of debris so they flow freely
- Tie down loose items such as outdoor furniture and play equipment
- Have a plan for managing pets and livestock
- Be prepared for power outages
In the event of heavy rainfall:
- Supervise children closely
- Manage pets and livestock
- Never enter or drive through floodwaters, and when driving lookout for debris on roads including fallen trees and power lines
- Report power outages to TasNetworks on 132 004
- Listen to ABC radio or check www.ses.tas.gov.au for further advice
- Call SES on 132 500 for flood and storm-related emergency assistance
Dial Triple Zero (000) in a life-threatening emergency