The Bureau of Meteorology has advised that severe weather in the form of damaging winds and heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding will continue to affect Tasmania until Friday.

While conditions eased for SES volunteers overnight, Thursday morning’s rain and strong winds have created problems for property owners between Latrobe and Circular Head. SES crews started to receive calls from 7am and have continued to deal with dislodged roofs and window damage, fallen trees and general storm damage throughout the day.

The Regional Incident Control Centre is operational and coordinating crews responding to emergency calls.

SES Regional Manager Wayne Richards reminded the public to take responsibility for their properties and take care when outdoors in the extreme conditions, particularly where there is a risk of airborne missiles and falling trees.

“Emergency services and Council resources are extremely busy dealing the effects of the wind and rain and people should be patient when requesting assistance”, he said.

Wind gusts up to 115km/h have been recorded at many sites in the north this morning, including Devonport, King Island and Smithton. The forecast for more rain also indicates that everyone should prepare for these conditions to continue at least until tomorrow.

The State Emergency Service advise that people should:

• Secure outdoor items including furniture and play equipment.
• Supervise all children closely.
• Check that family and neighbours are aware of warnings.
• Manage pets and livestock.
• Where safe – clear drains and gutters on premises prior to severe weather arriving.
• Be prepared in case of power outages.
• Do not walk, ride or drive through flood waters.
• Drive to the conditions.
• Beware of damaged trees and power lines and take care when driving.
• Ensure that drains and gutters are clear of debris and are running freely.
• Listen to the ABC radio or check www.ses.tas.gov.au for further advice.

For flood and storm emergency assistance, contact the SES on 132 500.