Queensland’s Bureau of Meteorology is warning it could be another summer of wild weather but not as bad as the last one.

We can expect above average rainfall and an increased fire danger.

Michelle Thomas reports.

TRANSCRIPT

Hold on to your umbrellas Queensland – it’s going to be a wild summer.

The Bureau of Meteorologoy briefed State Cabinet today with early forecasts for the coming summer months.

Odds are it’s going to be a wet and stormy season, but not as bad as last year.

Bruce Gunn, Bureau of Meteorology: “There will be cyclones, there will be floods – as there are every year – but I guess what’s different about this year is that the Southern Ocilation Index is at neutral levels.”

But despite the current neutral weather period as La Nina fades, the bureau is urging people not to become complacent.

Bruce Gunn, Bureau of Meteorology: “We really want people to be prepared and ready for whatever Mother Nature cares to throw at Queensland.”

On top of substantial rainfall, the Premier said there is also the risk of high fire danger – a result of last summer’s rains boost to vegetation growth.

Anna Bligh, Qld Premier: “It’s a good time as we go into spring for households and properties to be clearing stuff out of gutters and making sure that if you’re in a fire risk area you’re already taking precautions.”

The state will also see an above average number of severe thunderstorms, especially in south east Queensland, higher temperatures and more cyclones in the north.

Although Queenslanders can expect abnormal weather patterns in coming months it will be nothing like the rain and floods of last summer.

Anna Bligh, Qld Premier: “It’s our intention to keep planning for the worst while hoping for the best.”

Michelle Thomas, QUT News.