Suncorp and SES data results in Gold Coast being named state’s worst storm-affected region

Data from the State Emergency Service (SES) and Suncorp has led to the Gold Coast being given an unenviable title – with three busy suburbs hit especially hard.

THE Gold Coast has been given the unenviable title of the worst storm-hit region in Queensland.

Helensvale, Labrador and Southport are its hardest-hit suburbs.

State Emergency Service data in the past year shows volunteers ­responded to 1142 requests for assistance on the Coast.

And Suncorp revealed 3857 storm home insurance claims were lodged in the 12 months to June 2020.

The Sunshine Coast had the second highest number of claims at 3770, while Brisbane south was third with 2832 claims.

Lightning photographed on the Gold Coast from Surfers Paradise in late 2018. Picture: Nigel Hallett

The new data comes as the Bureau of Meteorology warns there is a 70 per cent chance this year – triple the normal likelihood – of the La Nina weather phenomenon forming.

La Nina would create more rainfall on the Coast, increasing the chance of severe flooding.

Suncorp chief executive Steve Johnston warned extreme weather events were “becoming more severe and frequent, with southeast Queensland continuing to hold the title of Australia’s storm capital”.

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“Our research shows even small-scale storms can have a big impact, so it is critical Queenslanders undertake home preparation and maintenance now as waiting until a storm is bearing down is just too late,” he said.

SES volunteer Ross Elliott said homeowners often found out the hard way they could have saved themselves a lot of heartache if they prepared properly before severe storms.

Flooding Movie World earlier this year 2020. Picture: Michelle Hill

He said simple tasks like cleaning gutters and securing loose items were often overlooked.

“A lot of times we get called out to leaky roofs and it’s because people don’t clean out their gutters,” Mr ­Elliott said.

“It’s very important that people look after their home to a certain ­degree – look after their roof, make sure it’s clear and if it’s a metal roof that it’s secure.”

Homeowners should make an emergency plan and store a kit where it is easily accessible. They should also clear gutters, trim trees and check ­insurance policies are up to date.