Locals urged to get ready for wet

AN event aimed at helping residents weather storm conditions has been revamped this year in order to ensure everyone is ready for the upcoming monsoon and cyclone season.

Get Ready Townsville will be held at the Jezzine Barracks on Sunday, November 6 this year ahead of the storm season.

Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill described the informational event as a ‘must-visit’.

“It doesn’t matter if you’ve lived here for six months or six years, there’s always something valuable to learn at Get Ready Townsville.

Like many areas so close to the equator, Townsville faces the reality of cyclones, emergency situations and highrisk weather all year round, particularly during the monsoon season,” Cr Hill said.

“It’s vitally important that if our city experiences an emergency or high risk weather event every local is prepared. That means knowing the steps you have to take for hazards like floods, cyclones and bushfires, and knowing how to safely evacuate your home if needed.

“I would strongly encourage anyone who lives in Townsville to mark Get Ready Townsville in their calendar and make it a priority to attend ahead of the monsoon and cyclone season.”

Townsville Local Disaster Management Group deputy chairman Kurt Rehbein said the event had renewed importance given the reality of a bleak weather forecast that could easily spell trouble.

“We’re heading into our third year of La Nina following a particularly wet winter, which makes it all the more important for locals to be prepared for above-average rainfall during this monsoon season,” Cr Rehbein said.

“Nobody wants to be caught out if we’re dealing with floods, cyclones or bushfires. These natural disasters happen very quickly, so it’s essential to be prepared so you and your family are in the best position to act if Townsville receives any high-risk weather during the monsoon season.” The event will be held between 9am and midday on November 6.