The NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) is urging Hunter residents to adopt the Scouts’ motto of “be prepared” ahead of the 2024/25 storm season.

That’s the message from Northern Zone Deputy Commander Superintendent Peter Keegan, as the risk of such severe weather events increases between now and April.

Over the past fortnight, local crews attended more than 100 call-outs due to the strong winds.

That figure’s likely to rise soon, too, with the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) predicting further harsh conditions for the start of the storm season.

“Just because it’s warming up doesn’t mean people can become complacent,” Superintendent Keegan said.

“While storms can occur any time of the year, they tend to be more frequent and more severe between the months of September and April.

“Last season, Northern Zone received in excess of 4,900 requests for assistance.

“Even on Boxing Day, we were called to 200 jobs when hail struck suddenly in the Maitland area.

“Already, the BoM’s forecasting above average temperatures and rainfall, which increase the threat of storms.

“So, on the back of that, we need to begin preparing now.

“As a community, we must start cleaning our gutters, downpipes and drains; fixing roofs and tiles; and trimming trees and branches, but also secure loose items around the yard like trampolines and outdoor settings.”

Superintendent Keegan admitted it was vital for locals to play their part as well.

“By completing simple tasks, people can prepare their dwellings and protect their families,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.

“Also, have a home emergency plan and kit.

“Any bit of preparation helps with response and recovery.

“But, one thing we reiterate all the time is don’t drive through floodwaters.

“You’re just not aware what you’re entering, what’s under the water or whether the road’s given away.

“Seriously, it isn’t worth the trouble.”

Superintendent Keegan was quick to praise the volunteers at the NSW SES Maitland Unit in Rutherford, who oversee an area from Millers Forest, near Raymond Terrace, to the boundary of Cessnock City Council and towards Paterson.

“It’s a reasonably large catchment, which continues to grow,” he said.

“Maitland boasts about 70 members and, obviously, they’re all volunteers.

“So, they’re devoting their time – and family time – to help the community.

“It’s a big commitment.

“I don’t think people fully understand that when they’re assisting others at all hours of the day or night, they’re missing out on being with families and friends and things like that.

“So, it takes a very special sort of person to volunteer their time for emergency services.

“Kudos to all of them here.”

Residents are encouraged to download the Hazards Near Me app, which was upgraded earlier this year to feature storm warnings, alongside existing flood, fire and tsunami alerts.

For more information, visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au

Tips to help people prepare for storms:

• Prepare for storms by securing loose items outside, trimming trees and branches away from properties, cleaning your gutters and moving your cars from underneath trees
• If you are caught out in a storm, seek shelter indoors. Do not shelter under trees and stay away from powerlines
• Prepare an emergency plan for storms and floods
• Download the Hazards Near Me app and set your watch zones
• If you need assistance from the NSW SES, phone 132 500. If it’s an emergency, call Triple 0

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