Queensland braces for a busy storm, flood and fire season
Just a day after crews contained an out-of-control bushfire and with about 60 fires burning across the state, Queensland is urging residents to prepare for an impending severe weather season. The warning comes as communities continue to recover from last season’s floods, storms and heavy rainfall, with most council areas already disaster-declared.
Last weekend’s blaze on Moreton Island, believed to have been sparked by a campfire during an active fire ban, scorched about 2,300 hectares before containment. In the Bundaberg region, two fires remain at watch and act levels, underscoring the ongoing risk as hot, dry conditions return to parts of the state. Central Queensland’s fire ban has been extended until October 10, while the south-east remains under a fire ban.
Across Queensland, around 60 fires were burning on Tuesday as authorities monitor rapidly changing conditions. Fire season Commissioner Steve Smith warned that while the season is prepared to be “average,” high fuel loads from recent wet seasons increase the probability of intense fires. He noted that the frequency and severity of bushfires have risen in recent years and said it was frustrating to respond to avoidable blazes like the one on Moreton Island.
What the warnings mean for residents
Emergency Services Minister Ann Leahy highlighted that many communities are still bearing the consequences of extreme weather. With 73 of 77 local council areas already disaster-declared, the state remains vigilant as it navigates a season likely to feature a mix of fires, storms, and floods. State Disaster Coordinator Christopher Stream described the last disaster season as “record-breaking” and pointed to Queensland as the most disaster-affected state in the country.
But the Bureau of Meteorology’s long-range outlook adds another layer of caution: the south-east and far north are forecast to see above-average rainfall from now through January, and severe storms are expected in addition to the regular rhythm of tropical cyclones. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner urged residents to be ready for “quite violent storms,” stressing that preparedness is about more than fires alone.
How to prepare now
With temperatures climbing—BOM reports average highs in the 32–35 C range for the south-east and occasional unseasonable warmth—the emphasis shifts to practical, household-level readiness. Prepare emergency kits with food, water, medicines, batteries and important documents. Check and maintain gutters, clear debris from around homes, and trim flammable vegetation to reduce fuel load near living spaces. Ensure vehicles are fueled and evacuation routes are understood.
Homeowners in fire-prone areas should inspect water supply alternatives, confirm insurance coverage, and establish a family evacuation plan. Local councils may offer community safety programs or warm-weather tips; staying informed via BOM alerts and council notices is essential to adapt to shifting conditions.
Fire bans and compliance
With a total fire ban in south-east Queensland through Tuesday evening and extensions in Central Queensland—covering areas like the South Burnett, Bundaberg, Gladstone and Gympie—compliance is critical. Authorities stress that even seemingly minor activities can trigger fires in dry conditions. As conditions are expected to ease to moderate danger later in the week, smoke haze may linger as long as fire activity persists.
Building community resilience
Queensland’s disaster response leaders emphasize that effective preparation reduces risk and speeds recovery. Lord Mayor Schrinner said, “Every summer we want to make sure that people are aware that it can be any kind of natural disaster that comes our way.” Local communities are encouraged to stay connected, share warnings with neighbors, and support vulnerable residents during the peak season.
As the state navigates a season of both familiar danger and unpredictable weather, the focus remains on proactive planning, wise fuel management, and staying tuned to the Bureau’s forecast. The outcome will hinge on individual actions and coordinated community responses in the weeks ahead.
