Guidelines for Actions During a Summer Storm
As the summer of 2023/24 approaches, Australia braces itself for an increase in thunderstorm activity. Understanding the factors that contribute to these storms and being prepared can help ensure safety and minimize damage.
Thunderstorms in Australia are primarily a summer phenomenon due to the interaction between warm air heated by the land and cooler air. In northern Australia, this effect is intensified by the tropical monsoon, which brings warm, moist north-westerly winds that fuel showers and thunderstorms during the wet season (October to April).
Key reasons for more summer thunderstorms in Australia include strong surface heating during summer, the monsoonal circulation, and moist air masses from the tropics. Warm, moist air is pushed upward into cooler layers of the atmosphere more frequently in warmer months, leading to the formation of thunderstorms.
Summer storms in Australia are characterised by stronger updrafts, allowing hailstones and storm clouds to grow taller and more intense. Severe thunderstorms are classified by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) as intense and violent, and are classified as such when they produce heavy rainfall, wind gusts of 90km/h or more, hail of 2cm diameter or more, or tornadoes.
The longer sunlight hours and warmer temperatures in summer also contribute to the increased occurrence of severe thunderstorms. However, these storms can bring about health risks such as thunderstorm asthma. It is important to consult with your healthcare professional for assistance with managing symptoms.
To stay safe during stormy weather, it is essential to prepare your home, be ready for blackouts, drive safely in wet and stormy conditions, have a backup for blackouts, know how to clean in the aftermath of a storm, and stay updated on weather updates from reputable sources.
Preparing an emergency kit for potential evacuation is also crucial. This should include essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, insurance documents, ID, torches, a battery charged radio, and a first aid kit.
It is also recommended to check that your home insurance coverage is up to date, as severe thunderstorms can cause flash flooding and other dangers. In the case of La Niña or a negative Indian Ocean Dipole weather event, the atmosphere becomes even more unstable, leading to wetter and stormier weather.
Staying informed and prepared can help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer season. For current incidents or hazards, look to sources including BoM, ABC local radio, the SES, the Vic Emergency app or website.
- Recognizing the connection between climate-change and weather patterns, environmental scientists have been studying the potential impact of global warming on weather-forecasting, including the prediction of Australian summer thunderstorms.
- During the summer, the increased frequency and intensity of severe thunderstorms in Australia, which can lead to health risks like thunderstorm asthma, emphasize the need for proper environmental-science research focusing on weather-forecasting.
