Donut Wait – Prepare for Storm Season

Published on 17 November 2025

As storm season quickly approaches, Charters Towers Regional Council is encouraging residents to take proactive steps to prepare their homes and families for severe weather events.

Using the light-hearted theme “Donut Wait”, Council is delivering a serious message - don’t delay storm preparation.

With increased risks of heavy rain, damaging winds and flash flooding, now is the time to act.

Mayor Liz Schmidt emphasised that preparation is key to community safety and resilience.

“We know storms can strike with little warning, and the impacts can be significant.

“That’s why we’re asking residents to ‘donut wait’. Get ready now, so you’re not caught out when the weather turns,” the Mayor said.

Council’s Top Storm Season Tips:

Clean gutters and check your roof for damage or leaks.
Secure outdoor items that could become hazards in strong winds.
Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like a torch, radio, water, and medications.
Have a household emergency plan and know your evacuation routes.
Don’t forget your pets by ensuring you have plenty of supplies for them.
Stay informed by following Council and emergency services on social media and downloading relevant alert apps.

Residents are also encouraged to stock up their pantry with at least three days’ worth of non-perishable food and water.

When severe weather is forecast, supermarket shelves can empty quickly and having supplies on hand means you won’t be left scrambling at the last minute.

Council will be sharing storm readiness messages across social media and community channels throughout the season, using donut-themed puns to help the message stick.

“We’re sprinkling in some humour to make preparedness more engaging.

“But the message is clear - do not wait and take action now,” the Mayor added.

For more information on how to prepare for storm season, visit Council’s Disaster Dashboard at getready.charterstowers.qld.gov.au

Supported by the Queensland Government’s Get Ready Queensland program. For more information, visit getready.qld.gov.au.