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Storm hits Lockyer and Somerset

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THE Lockyer and Somerset region was battered by a severe thunderstorm which swept in from the west after 1.30pm last Friday.

With wind gusts recorded at 109kmh the storm left many trees uprooted and storm water drains struggling to contain the large quantity of water as heavy rain pelted the Valley.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) issued a severe weather warning at 1.20pm for areas including the Lockyer Valley, parts of Ipswich, Somerset and the South Burnett.

More than 2500 lightning strikes were recorded on the GPATs lightning tracker and up to 800 homes and businesses in the Lockyer Valley were without electricity supply due to the severe weather.

With the storm season just winding up, Energex is urging home and business owners to take a look around their properties and tidy up any loose items.

Items such as building materials and outdoor furniture can become dangerous missiles when left outside during high winds so where possible store these safely in a secure place.

Energex is also encouraging people to ensure they have a torch with fresh batteries and keep a radio handy to monitor storm information.

Energex emergency response crews are on standby and ready to respond to any interruptions caused by expected severe weather and will restore any power issues as soon as it is safe to do so.

If members of the public see any powerlines brought down or damaged they are urged to call the emergency line on 13 19 62 and stay clear, or alternatviely call 000.