Living in North Queensland most are aware to be prepared for and usually get plenty of warning of a forming cyclone so we can prepare. However, it isn’t just cyclones that threaten damage to our properties and surroundings. From November to April the risk of flash flooding and electrical storms are high and can happen with little to no notice.

So, what can you do to make sure your property and family is prepared this storm season?

Know your risk:

Check your local government/council to find our if your property lies in a storm tide zone and/or a flood zone. When a storm is imminent updates will come through based on these zones.

Storm tide zone: Storm surge is a significant rise in the ocean level caused by a cyclone.

Flood zone: During wet season flash flooding can rise and become dangerous very quickly.

How to prepare:

As storm season rolls around each year it is best practice to do a check of your house and surroundings and clean up in anticipation.

Things to check:

• Ensure your home is in good condition, with a strong and secure structure
• Check roof sheets/tiles are firmly secured and free from rust/corrosion (including fasteners)
• Any rotting timber
• Termites/termite damage
• Loose fittings
• Doors and windows are secure and check seals to minimise wind-driven rain entering
• Garage doors are adequately wind and debris rated, or you have temporary bracing system that can be installed
• Clear gutters and down pipes regularly to prevent blockages. Check gutters for leaks and that your gutter & fascia are securely fastened to your roof
• Check fencing for damage/corrosion
• Trim trees and branches that hang over your roof and remove weak branches from any trees on your property
• Check any sheds/boats/caravans and ensure they can be secured when necessary
• In the case of a cyclone or strong wind warning secure any loose items

Having an emergency storm plan will ensure you and your household/family have all the gear they need at moment’s notice.

Things to include:

• A plan should you need to evacuate. Where will you go & what route will you take
• First aid kit
• Battery powered radio to keep up to date with current warnings and advice
• Enough supplies to be without power or running water for at least 5 days
• Where you will shelter in home – the strongest part of the building is often the bathroom, toilet or hallway
• List of emergency contacts

Above all make sure you have checked out your local council/government/SES for all information on how you and your family can be prepared for storm season and what to do in the event of a natural disaster.

Reminder that the time immediately after a storm/cyclone can be just as dangerous as the storm itself. Be aware of fallen powerlines and stay out of floodwaters.

Check out more information on how you can be storm season ready here:

Queensland

Get Ready Queensland

SES | State Emergency Service

Cairns Regional Council

Cassowary Coast Regional Council

Cook Shire Council

Douglas Shire

Mareeba Shire Council

TRC – Tablelands Regional Council

Townsville City Council

Charters Towers Regional Council

NT

Northern Territory Government

NT Police, Fire & Emergency Services

City of Darwin | Darwin Council, Northern Territory

Home | East Arnhem Regional Council

WA

DFES – Department of Fire and Emergency Services

WA State Emergency Service (SES)

Home Shire of Broome

Please note this communication is Cairns Hardware commentary only and is not to be relied on as advice. Information was formed from the following resources:

Preparing-for-Cyclones-Guide.pdf

Dashboard – disaster.cairns.qld.gov.au

Protect your home | Get Ready Queensland