What to do during a storm or severe weather

Severe weather damaged around 750 homes in the Gold Coast area Christmas night 2023. (ABC Gold Coast: Julia Andre )

Thunderstorms with destructive winds, lightning, hail, heavy rain and flash flooding can threaten lives and cause severe damage to your property, sometimes with little warning.

It's vital to understand the storm warnings issued by the Bureau of Meteorology and follow the advice of local councils, police or emergency services during a storm.

During a storm

The Bureau of Meteorology only issues warnings for storms that may pose a threat to lives and property.

If a warning is issued:

Stay listening to your local ABC Radio station, check your local ABC Facebook page for updates, warnings and advice.
Search for BOM storm warnings in your location on the ABC Emergency incident map.
Check your local BOM radar to see where the storm is now.
Stay indoors and keep away from windows while storm conditions are severe.
Unplug your modem. When lightning strikes the node, it causes an electrical surge inside the house that can destroy your router or modem.
Keep your emergency kit handy in case you lose power.
Driving in storms can be challenging, move very slowly and turn on your headlights. Look out for hazards like downed power lines, fallen trees or branches.
Never drive into water over roads.

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