As we step into Get Ready Queensland Week (8-13 October), it's crucial to reflect on the recent devastating weather events that have unfolded globally. The toll of Hurricane Helene has been catastrophic, claiming over 230 lives across multiple states in the US. Helene made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Florida's Big Bend region, marking the deadliest hurricane to strike the mainland since Katrina in 2005.
Hot on Helene's heels, Hurricane Milton is set to strike Florida with unprecedented force, hitting similar states to Helene. With over a million residents in the Tampa Bay area ordered to evacuate, the urgency of preparedness cannot be overstated. At the time of writing, people in Tampa were working furiously to prevent furniture, appliances and other waterlogged wreckage from Helene from becoming deadly projectiles in Milton. Additionally, the destruction caused by Typhoon Shanshan in Japan and Super Typhoon Yagi in Vietnam last month reminds us of the ongoing threat posed by natural disasters.
As we face the approaching cyclone season in Mackay, we must remember that complacency is not an option. The goal isn’t to instill panic but to encourage proactive measures. Consider how you would prepare for a week in the wilderness: ensure you have enough food and water, essential medications, and important documents ready to go. Think about what comforts you might need, such as insect repellent, and have sturdy footwear for unexpected flooding.
Know when to evacuate, where to go, and what to take with you. This preparedness can make all the difference in a crisis.
For more information on how to get ready, turn to page 8 for guidelines from the Mackay Regional Council.
And don’t forget about your furry companions. Ensure your food and water for a week includes them, and don’t forget about keeping an eye on them during extreme heat. Don’t walk your pets on hot pavement or sand during the heat of the day, check the temperature with the back of your hand, and keep those water bowls filled.
Stay vigilant and prepared as cyclone season approaches, the time to get ready is now.
Amanda
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