Don't be fooled: wet weather actually increases bushfire risk in SEQ
After months of storms, flooding, and even an ex-tropical cyclone battering South East Queensland, bushfires are likely the last thing on most residents' minds. However, Healthy Land & Water's fire management team are warning that these wet conditions could be setting the stage for a high-risk bushfire season in our region.
The wet weather fire paradox
"It's a common misconception that all this rain means we don't need to worry about fires," says Hannah Etchells, Environmental Project Manager and Fire Ecologist at Healthy Land & Water. "In reality, these prolonged wet periods are creating perfect conditions for fuel accumulation that will pose significant fire risks once things dry out."
The recent deluge has triggered the explosive growth of grasses and other vegetation across the region. When dry winter winds arrive and overnight frosts begin, these lush landscapes will quickly transform into prime fire fuel.
Our Environmental Project Manager and Fire Ecologist, Hannah Etchells, undertaking a fuel hazard assessment only a few weeks ago – look at the fuel load!
How recent weather patterns increase fire risk
Our fire management team has identified several ways the recent wet conditions can increase bushfire danger:
- Rapid vegetation growth: The warm, wet weather has spurred exceptional growth of grasses and other fine fuels that will dry out rapidly when conditions change.
- Delayed hazard reduction: Normally, planned burn season would start around April, but this year's persistent wet conditions mean it's unlikely to be dry enough until late May or beyond, compressing the window for preventative burns.
- Storm debris accumulation: Recent storms have left a trail of fallen trees, branches, and dead vegetation across the landscape. Flooding has further concentrated these materials in certain areas, creating dense fuel loads around trees, fences, and other infrastructure.
- Damaged access routes: Many fire breaks and management tracks have been washed out or damaged, making it harder for firefighters to access bushland areas both for planned burns and emergency response.
Time to prepare, not relax
With residents focused on storm cleanup and flood recovery, bushfire preparedness has understandably fallen down the priority list. However, Healthy Land & Water urges all South East Queenslanders to update their bushfire survival plans now, before winter winds arrive.
"The transition from wet to dry can happen surprisingly quickly," Etchells explains. "Once we get a few weeks without rain and those overnight frosts begin, all that green growth will cure into perfect fire fuel."
Property owners should pay particular attention to areas where flood debris has accumulated, especially against structures, fences, and at the base of trees.
What you can do now
- Review and update your bushfire survival plan.
- Clear gutters and roof spaces of debris.
- Remove accumulated vegetation from around structures.
- Check access routes on your property.
- Discuss emergency plans with family members.
Healthy Land & Water will be conducting community information sessions throughout June and July to help residents prepare. For more information or to register for a session, visit our events page, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn or contact our team at
Remember: The time to prepare for bushfire season is now, not when the smoke appears on the horizon.
