More than four cyclones expected off Queensland coast over summer

Queenslanders have been warned to prepare for the possibility of more cyclones this summer, with a severe weather season already predicted for the coming months.

More than four cyclones could form in the Coral Sea over summer, increasing the likelihood of more of the dangerous weather systems crossing the Queensland coast.

Queenslanders have been warned of a “severe weather season” over coming months that could bring increased rain causing flooding across the state.

Southeast set for more ‘similar’ storms as heatwave continues across inland

La Nina-generated storms can’t come quick enough for under-the-pump firefighters

But the Bureau of Meteorology is expecting the current La Nina to be different to 2011’s when devastating floods savaged the state, because water catchments are drier this year.

Saturated catchments usually lead to increased flooding risks.

Queensland could experience cyclones and some flooding this summer, although it will be different to 2011’s devastating floods.

Senior meteorologist Laura Boekel said the forecast was a shift from last year’s devastating bushfire season.

“The message for this severe weather season is pretty clear, we’re in a La Nina event,” she said.

“What that means for Queensland is that we are expected to see a higher amount of rainfall this season, which could therefore lead to above average amount of flooding for the state.”

Ms Boekel said Queensland typically sees four cyclones form in the Coral Sea each year, with one to two of those crossing the coast.

“If we’re expecting an above average season, while I can’t give exact or specific numbers, I can say that we’re likely to see more than that amount,” she said.

Ms Boekel said this year’s La Nina was different to 2011’s when the catchments were already very saturated.

The state had also been in a La Nina for a “much longer period” in 2011.

“This severe weather season is different, so the catchments aren’t as flooded as what we’ve seen and we have just entered into the La Nina,” she said.

Maximum temperatures are expected to be lower in coming months, while Queenslanders could experience warmer nights and more humidity across summer.