ABOVE-average rainfall is predicted during spring and summer as the start of the ACT storm season approaches.

The local storm season officially begins tomorrow (October 1) and the ACT State Emergency Service (ACTSES) is asking Canberrans to get their homes and emergency plans ready.

ACT Emergency Services Agency Commissioner Georgeina Whelan says the start of the storm season was delayed by one month to align with other states.

“The official start of the storm season was delayed by one month to align with the New South Wales storm season, in support of a nationally consistent approach to emergency alerts and warnings,” she said.

“Through this La Nina event working collaboratively, particularly with the NSW State Emergency Service, is integral in ensuring safe outcomes for our community members as we face common challenges over the coming months.”

ACTSES Chief Officer Anthony Draheim said there’s also a risk flooding as we enter a third La Nina weather event this season.

“The ongoing, unusually high volume of rainfall we have continued to experience, has resulted in very high-water content in our soil, causing saturation and an increased risk of flooding”, he said.

“We’re ready when Canberra prepares together, I encourage the community to stay vigilant and understand what the risks are in your area, be aware of the changing weather patterns, and prepare your home for all conditions.”