Weather Thresholds Guidance

Introduction

This document outlines the weather thresholds that will be used to determine whether school activities will proceed as planned. These thresholds are designed to ensure the safety and well-being of students, staff, and visitors.

Note: These thresholds are general guidelines and may be adjusted based on specific circumstances or local conditions.

Wind Levels

  • Yellow Alert: Wind speeds reach 30-40 km/h. Outdoor activities will proceed with caution, and students will be advised to secure loose items.
  • Orange Alert: Wind speeds reach 40-50 km/h. Outdoor activities will be suspended, and students will be brought indoors. Indoor facilities around the Skennars area should be considered.
  • Red Alert: Wind speeds exceed 50 km/h. Onland will be cancelled and redirected to Lismore or alternante indoor activities in the Skennars area.

Top Temperature

  • Yellow Alert: Temperatures exceed 32°C. Outdoor activities will be modified or shortened, and students will be encouraged to drink plenty of water. No hat play in shade.
  • Orange Alert: Temperatures exceed 35°C. Outdoor activities will be individually assessed, and students will be brought indoors for cooling down periods. No hat, no play.
  • Red Alert: Temperatures exceed 38°C. Indoor activities to be considered. Cool down procedures. Ensure water is available.

Rainfall

  • Yellow Alert: Rainfall exceeds 20mm in 24 hours. Outdoor activities will proceed with caution, and students will be provided with rain gear.
  • Orange Alert: Rainfall exceeds 40mm in 24 hours. Outdoor activities to be individually assessed, and students will be brought indoors.
  • Red Alert: Rainfall exceeds 80mm in 24 hours. Outdoor activities to be individually assessed. Inside activities to be planned including booking halls, sporting facilities.

Lightning

  • Yellow Alert: Lightning is observed within a 5km radius. Outdoor activities will be paused, and students will be brought indoors.
  • Orange Alert: Lightning is observed within a 2km radius. The school will be placed on partial lockdown, and all outdoor activities will be suspended.
  • Red Alert: Lightning strikes occur within the school grounds or nearby. The school will be put into partial lockdown and students managed inside. 

Flooding

  • Yellow Alert: Flooding is observed in nearby areas. Outdoor activities will be monitored, and students will be advised to avoid flooded areas.
  • Orange Alert: Flooding is observed on school grounds or nearby roads. Outdoor activities will be suspended, and students will be brought indoors.
  • Red Alert: Flooding poses a significant threat to the school. The school will be evacuated, and students will be sent home. Due to the way Lismore floods this is unlikely as a decision would be made early to prevent the need for evacuation. Relocation options are Stewart Family Farm or SCU.

Decision-Making Process

The decision to implement a weather alert will be made by the Living School Conductor or designated staff member based on weather forecasts and current conditions. Alerts will be communicated to students, staff, and parents through various channels, including social media, and email.

Version history: 13/02/2025
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