Warnings (continued)

In addition to the progress made in warning of floods, gales and bushfires, the Bureau also developed systems to warn of other meteorological conditions likely to endanger life and/or property. Len Dwyer encouraged Bureau staff to suggest warning systems which might be initiated. Other initiatives came from outside the Bureau, some from Commonwealth and State agencies and some from the general public. A wide variety of warning systems was developed during the Dwyer years.

Farmers and graziers enthusiastically welcomed the beginning of weather alerts warning of cold outbreaks with rain likely to endanger the lives of sheep, especially at lambing time. Orchardists and vignerons were similarly interested in warnings of humidity, hail or other conditions likely to damage fruit crops.

Electricity authorities were warned of danger of lightning so that they could arrange teams of linesmen to be on duty to restore damaged power systems.

Special forecasts and warnings were developed for small commercial and recreational fishing craft operating in coastal waters and harbours. Warning services for deep sea craft had been prepared and issued for many years, being broadcast over special marine broadcasts for shipping, but the small craft warnings were broadcast by ABC and commercial radio stations as well as by special broadcasts for coastal shipping.

Small craft warning services became so popular that many yacht and fishing clubs sought speakers from the Bureau, talks often being given by Bureau staff in their off-duty hours. Users of other warning services were also eager to have discussions with Bureau staff, most of whom made time to fill speaking engagements.

The issues of Weather News during the Dwyer years contain many references to this wide variety of specialised warning services. They are listed in an index in the Bureau's Metarch Papers No 1 of February 1986.

Bureau of Meteorology