The Bureau of Meteorology warns the severe weather season has already begun, and says there is no significant link between major storms and El Nino – a climate pattern from warmer sea surface temperatures in parts of the Pacific.

Warmer and drier conditions than average are expected across Australia after the bureau last month declared not only an El Nino event, but also another climate factor known as an Indian Ocean Dipole.

“What that means for Queenslanders is that we can expect to see more heat waves and higher fire danger ratings as well,” the bureau’s senior meteorologist Laura Boekel said on Monday.

October to April will also be a peak time for severe weather in Australia, she said.

“It’s important to note that Queenslanders will also experience flooding, severe storms, as well as tropical cyclones this season,” Ms Boekel said.

The cyclone season is usually from November to April, typically peaking in Queensland in February and March.

“It’s important to note that since records began every single cyclone season has seen at least one tropical cyclone cross the coast in Australian waters,” Ms Boekel said.

“There is no significant link between El Nino and severe storms so we can still expect to see severe storms this season – in fact our season has already begun.”

The state government on Monday launched its Get Ready Queensland campaign for 2023 to ensure residents were prepared for the severe storm season.

“Queensland is the most disaster-prone state having experienced more than 100 natural disasters over the last decade or so – we need to be prepared,” Deputy Premier Steven Miles said.

Queenslanders are encouraged to plan ahead, prepare a household emergency plan, pack an emergency kit and stay up to date with the latest forecast and warnings.