Flood

Few parts of the country are immune from flooding, whether it be localised flash flooding from intense thunderstorms, or more widespread and longer-lived inundations resulting from heavy rain over the catchments of established river systems. Then normally quiet-flowing streams can spill out over thousands of square kilometres of surrounding country.

January 2012 Flash Flood
January 2011 Flood Texas
January 2011 Flood Caboolture
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Cyclone

Cyclones affect Queensland, mainly along the northern coastline, each summer from November 1 to April 30. The Bureau of Meteorology allocates each cyclone a unique numeric identifier and name. The gale force winds can extend hundreds of kilometres from the cyclone centre. If the sustained winds around the centre reach 118 km/h (gusts in excess 165 km/h). then the system is called a severe tropical cyclone. These are referred to as hurricanes or typhoons in other countries.

January 2013 Cyclone Oswald
February 2011 Cyclone Yasi
March 2010 Cyclone Ului
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Bushfire

The dangers of bushfires are high in drier seasons. They are usually caused by lightning or humans, and can burn quickly and be very devastating if not detected and extinguished. When dry periods follow wet seasons that generate regrowth, bushfires can be particularly dangerous. A bushfire can destroy homes and buildings, devastate crops, and threaten the lives of humans and animals.

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Storm Surge

Storm surge refers to a rise in offshore water related to a low pressure system such as a tropical cyclone. Storm surges are primarily caused by strong winds that push on the ocean's surface, particularly when this occurs in a shallow water environment. Sometimes the term "storm tide" is used to describe "storm surge" - meaning water associated with storms surges up.

January 1967 Storm Surge
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Severe Storm

Severe thunderstorms are localised events, usually affecting smaller areas than tropical cyclones and floods. Their devastating impact is often underestimated. These storms, which are more common than any other natural hazard, can occur anywhere in Australia. Each year, on average, severe thunderstorms are responsible for more damage (as measured by insurance costs) than tropical cyclones, earthquakes, floods or bushfires

May 2011 Hail
October 2008 Hail
January 2008 Severe Thunderstorm
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