The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) confirmed a La Nina event was underway in the Pacific Ocean, warning communities in the firing line, to prepare for an 80% chance of above-average rain for the rest of 2022 and early 2023.

BoM head of long-range forecasts Dr Andrew Watkins said while La Nina criteria had been met, most models forecast the event to be weak to moderate in strength, likely peaking during spring before easing in summer.

“During La Nina events, waters in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean are cooler than normal, and waters in the western tropical Pacific Ocean warmer than normal,” Dr Watkins said.

“This causes changes in wind, cloud and pressure patterns over the Pacific. When this change in the atmosphere combines with changes in ocean temperature, it can influence global weather patterns and climate, including increasing rainfall over large parts of Australia”.

Dr Watkins said there were other climate influences which shaped the outlook of above-average rainfall for Queensland in coming months.

RACQ General Manager Advocacy Josh Cooney said with river catchments already wet and dams full, Queenslanders should heed the BoM advice and prepare for potential extreme weather events.

“Now is the time to clear debris from your yard and roof, clean out your gutters so water can flow freely and doesn’t pool and cause damage, trim back overgrown trees and carry out any necessary repairs and maintenance work on your house,” Mr Cooney said.

“Make sure you have an emergency kit and if you live in a flood-prone area, talk to your family about how you would evacuate in case you need to leave.

“It’s also important to check that your home, contents and motor insurance cover is up to date.

“Homeowners can also look at long-term mitigation measures to better protect themselves, particularly in cyclone-prone areas.

“This includes installing water resistant materials and cabinetry, roller door bracing, glass reinforcement, window shutters and roof strapping.”

Many south east Queenslanders are still recovering from flooding earlier this year.

“The unprecedented February flooding was the second costliest weather event in Australia’s history and has taken an enormous toll on our members, who we continue to support through the recovery and rebuilding phase,” Mr Cooney said.

Over the past three years, RACQ Insurance received more than 65,000 home and motor claims for storm, hail and flood damage, with 79% falling in ‘storm season’ between September and March.

While Brisbane and Moreton Bay were two of the hardest hit regions over the past year as a result of the devastating February floods, the data also revealed Central Queensland, Logan/Beaudesert, Sunshine Coast and Ipswich experienced a high volume of storm-related damage to their homes and cars.