Tasmanians are being urged to prepare for a ‘significant’ change in the weather, with severe thunderstorms and ‘giant hail’ forecast across the state tomorrow.
The Bureau of Meteorology predict that ‘large to giant hail’ around 5cm in diameter will fall alongside heavy rain and strong wind gusts of more than 90 km/hr.
Hot conditions are forecast for tomorrow morning, followed by a cold front in the afternoon which the SES warn will bring the severe weather.
People are being urged to ensure all outdoor furniture and equipment is secured, and if heavy hail falls, limit time outdoors and on the road while conditions are poor.
STORM DAMAGE – 4 PM MONDAY:
An SES staff member has suffered significant hail damage on her property at Carlton near Dodges Ferry after the storm pushed through.
Cheryl Ames says the hailstones dented the bonnet and smashed the windscreens of her two cars, and damaged other miscellaneous objects around her property.
TASMANIA POLICE’S ADVICE TO MOTORISTS – 12 PM MONDAY:
“If you’re travelling on the east coast today, please be aware of the storm warning. There’s potential for short and intense bursts of heavy rain, hail, and strong wind,” said Deputy Commissioner Jonathan Higgins.
“The Bureau advises the storms will continue to move so if you feel conditions on the road are unsafe, then pull over in a safe place and wait until it passes. Alternatively, leave earlier or delay your travel to avoid being caught in the passing storm.”
“The storms are most likely in the Hobart area between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm, and on the east coast between 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm.”
Meanwhile, the Taste of Summer in Hobart delayed the opening of their final day today due to the severe weather, holding up stallholders and punters for 3 hours.
In a statement, event organizers explained the “comfort and safety” of Taste patrons, staff and stallholders is their “top priority”.
“Earlier today I met with the SES and the Bureau of Meteorology to discuss the forecasts for today and any potential impact on the safe operation of the Taste of Summer,” said Taste of Summer CEO Stephen McMullen.
“On the basis of that advice, we have decided to delay opening today until 3pm and extend our opening hours to 9pm tonight.”
Pulse and the SES advises people to be prepared and safe tomorrow and:
• Check bom.gov.au for the latest weather forecast and warnings in your area.
• Check TasALERT.com for current warnings and alerts.
• Check that family and neighbours, especially those who are vulnerable, are aware and have a plan in place.
In the event of heavy hail:
• Minimise unnecessary time outside while the hail is falling.
• Supervise children closely.
• Manage pets and livestock.
• Listen to the ABC radio
• Call SES on 132 500 for flood and storm-related emergency assistance.
• Dial Triple Zero (000) in a life-threatening emergency.
