We are unprepared for severe weather events in Logan, according to experts, as the city is named the second hardest-hit region in the state for inclement weather.
More than 400 weather-related insurance claims were submitted to NRMA by Logan residents this last summer.
The majority of them came from Jimboomba, Cedar Grove, Cedar Vale, Mundoolun and Yarrabilba.
Meteorologist Zac Segger said while Logan residents had seen a “quiet spring” before a wild summer, they could expect to see more severe weather in the coming months.
“The risk of severe thunderstorm activity remains present in early-mid autumn” he said.
“Although moving from summer into winter is associated with a reduced probability of extreme weather, it is important to remember that heavy rainfall events could occur year-round.
“This will include heavy downpours, damaging winds, and large hail.”
NRMA data shows just over 50 per cent of Queenslanders prepared for wild weather over the summer, with Logan residents among the least prepared.
Mr Segger said the largest barrier to being better prepared for severe weather was the mindset of “it won’t happen to me”.
“But it will happen to you,” he said.
“Wild weather can arise with little warning and be incredibly destructive in just a few minutes.
He said taking simple steps like trimming trees and branches around your home were great ways to prepare for severe weather.
“Autumn is an ideal time to do this, as cooler temperatures make it easier to see a tree’s structure as it loses its leaves,” Mr Segger said.
He said events like the Christmas Day storm were predictable and could be prepared for.
Residents were likely “caught off-guard” because the storm followed a quiet spring.
“Severe thunderstorms on Christmas day saw a large squall line form near Cedar Vale/Jimboomba and towards the coast,” Mr Segger said.
“These storms will frequently result in more widespread impacts from destructive winds and demonstrate just how damaging severe thunderstorm activity can be.
“Severe weather such as storms and heavy rainfall can happen anywhere, at any time of the year.
“It is important to prepare your family and prepare your property and stay prepared all year round.”
