New AI storm warning system to revolutionise Qld disaster prep

Queensland has secured world-first AI storm detection technology in a $3m partnership between Suncorp and the state government to revolutionise natural disaster response.

Emergency Services Minister Dan Purdie

World-leading thunderstorm detection technology could be a game changer for how Queensland prepares for natural disasters, with the AI-driven system set to be at the forefront of a $3m investment from Suncorp and the state government.

Announced on Wednesday, the Future-Ready Resilience program would aim to boost natural disaster preparedness across the state.

Of the $3m investment over three years, $250,000 would be dedicated to developing an AI-driven severe storm warning system, which would deliver advance notice to Queenslanders, provide details for where a weather event could hit and the types of hazards that could arise.

The warning system, which was the first of its kind in Australia, would use real-time satellite, radar and weather modelling data to track an extreme weather event and offer guidance for both the government and Suncorp in the hours before it hits.

Emergency Services Minister Dan Purdie said the program was an important collaboration for improving Queensland’s ability to tackle extreme weather.

“It’s another example of how the Crisafulli Government is backing our first responders with the tools they need to stay one step ahead,” he said.

Suncorp CEO Steve Johnston

“This partnership between the Crisafulli Government and Suncorp is about harnessing the power of technology and research to give our emergency services, our communities, and our state the best possible chance to respond, recover and rebuild.

“This world-leading storm warning technology could be a game-changer for our frontline response.

“Giving police and emergency services advance notice of severe weather means we can get resources in place faster, keep communities safer, and save lives.”

More than $2m would be used for research into developing new strategies for improving the state’s resilience to extreme weather events.

Funding would also be used for natural hazard resilience training for builders and community-based initiatives to reduce extreme weather risks.

Suncorp CEO Steve Johnston said: “This program underscores our ongoing commitment to working with the Queensland Government to protect Queensland communities against the escalating threat of extreme weather, such as floods, cyclones, storms and bushfires.

“This partnership highlights the crucial role that data and technology can play in helping to strengthen our communities in responding to extreme weather, enhancing Suncorp’s already world-class disaster response expertise and technology.”

Originally published as New AI storm warning system to revolutionise Qld disaster prep