Summer weather in Australia: Holiday warnings will distort floods, hurricanes and bushfires

Australians are being urged to put safety at the top of their list of things to do this summer, with severe weather forecasts wreaking havoc over the festive season.

Emergency services organizations are preparing for a busy summer and are warning that people should have a plan in case they are struck by a natural disaster.

It comes as the Met Office released its long-term forecast for summer, noting that it was likely to be wetter along the New South Wales coast, most of Victoria, South Australia, and large parts of Queensland, as well as northern and eastern Tasmania.

NSW Emergency Service Commissioner Carlin York said that with many roads flooded and properties isolated, it is important for people to take extra care while driving in flood-affected areas.

An aerial photograph of Lismore in northern New South Wales shows widespread flooding as the area experiences its worst flooding in a century. Photo: NCA NewsWire

Many of the rescues that our SES volunteers have unfortunately completed have been to people who have been trapped in their cars by flood waters, so if you need to be on the road in these areas please plan ahead and in case you do come across a flooded road, stop, Commissioner York said. Turn around and find another way.

The bureau warned that any significant rainfall could lead to flooding as rivers are already high, dams are full and watersheds are wet.

“Above-average precipitation also increases the risk of landslides and fallen trees in areas with steep slopes and very wet soils,” the office said.

But it’s not just rain that residents need to be aware of this summer, as NSW Fire and Rescue Commissioner Paul Baxter has warned families they need to be vigilant no matter how they spend their holidays.

“Whether it is planning for any potential wildfire risk in your area or something as simple as lighting your Christmas tree, please keep safety in mind,” Commissioner Baxter said.

NSW Rural Fire Services Commissioner Rob Rogers said continued rainfall had resulted in good grass and crop growth across New South Wales, particularly in the western parts of the state.

“Whether you are planning for any potential wildfire risk in your area or something as simple as lighting your Christmas tree, please keep safety in mind,” Commissioner Baxter said.

NSW Emergency Services Minister Steve Cook said the summer months are notoriously high in risk of severe storms

“As warmer weather sets in, landscapes will dry up, increasing the risk of dangerous and fast-moving grass fires,” he said.

So I urge people to know the risks you’re exposed to and learn about the new fire risk rating system which has been streamlined into four levels – medium, high, severe and catastrophic – with clear procedures for each level.

NSW Emergency Services Minister Steve Cook said the summer months are notoriously high in risk of severe storms.

As we’ve seen time and time again this year, natural disasters can affect anyone at any time, so the key safety tips for preparing a wildfire survival plan are not driving through floodwaters, swimming between flags and making sure your home is fire safe. It is as important as ever,” Ms Cooke said.

“We want everyone to have a great summer and the way to achieve that is to prepare, know your risks, and look out for each other.”

Victoria, coastal New South Wales, large parts of Queensland, and northern and eastern Tasmania will receive above-average rain and cooler temperatures (pictured, weather map indicating higher rainfall expected in December)

Northeastern parts of New South Wales will experience below average temperatures for this time of year (pictured) as will southern parts of Queensland and Victoria