Tasmanians will see clearer, nationally consistent storm warnings under a new system rolled out by the State Emergency Service this month.
The Tasmania SES has adopted the Australian Warning System for storms, bringing the state into line with warning arrangements already used for bushfires and floods.
The system uses three escalating levels of warnings, each paired with clear advice on what people should do to stay safe.
SES and Tasmania Fire Service public information and warnings manager Heather Stewart said the change would make it easier for Tasmanians to gauge the severity of a storm.
“The Australian Warning System provides clear, simple messaging about the level of risk and the actions people should take,” Stewart said.
She said storms could strike anywhere in Tasmania at any time of year and often escalated quickly.
“Having nationally consistent warnings helps ensure people recognise the risk and act early.”
Tasmania regularly cops storms and severe weather that trigger flash flooding and damage trees, buildings and powerlines.
These events can also bring torrential rain, strong winds, large hailstones and lightning, knocking out power, phone and internet services and cutting road access.
Stewart said the storm warnings would follow the same three-tier structure already familiar to Tasmanians through flood and bushfire alerts.
“The storm warning system uses three levels of warnings, this is the same model as flood and bushfire warnings, which have already been introduced in Tasmania,” she said.
Stewart urged residents to get familiar with the platform before the next severe weather event.
She also thanked those who helped develop the system alongside SES members and volunteers.
The project was co-funded by the Australian Government’s Disaster Ready Fund.
