Australian Emergency Management Minister Murray Watt has called for a review of the weather warning systems following criticism of the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM).
The bureau has faced backlash for its forecasts and warnings related to ex-tropical cyclone Jasper in Queensland’s far north and the Christmas Day storms that struck the state’s southeast.
Residents of Cairns’ Holloways Beach reported receiving major flood warnings only after they were already isolated, while Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate criticized the delay in weather warnings, calling it “unforgivable” that alerts were issued after the Christmas Day storms had passed.
Watt has directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to coordinate with the BoM, state governments, and local councils to assess and address deficiencies in the warning processes.
A new national messaging system is expected in 2024 to improve weather alert communication.He indicated that improvements might involve clearer communication from the BoM and better training for councils in interpreting and disseminating weather information.
Watt acknowledged the impact of climate change on weather patterns and the limitations of existing prediction models. He stressed that the bureau is working to adapt to these changes, but acknowledged that increasing unpredictability in weather is a reality that must be addressed.
Queensland Premier Steven Miles supported the review, emphasizing the need to adapt to changing weather events and improve alert systems.
Additionally, Watt announced that the federal government is developing a new national messaging system, expected to be operational in 2024, to enhance communication and response efforts.