It is estimated that more than one million properties (around 1 in 10 private homes) in Australia are impacted by floods annually1. Floods are unpredictable and potentially dangerous, damaging infrastructure and cutting off essential services, as well as causing severe damage to property and threat to life. Never ignore flood warnings. Any kind of water source may flood due to inundation from heavy rainfall or high tides.

Having a plan and knowing what to do may significantly limit damage and decrease recovery time. With the exception of flash floods, you should have time to take pre-emptive action when flood alerts are broadcast.

When is flooding likely to happen?

Flooding in Australia can occur at various times throughout the year, depending on the region and prevailing weather patterns. Here is a general overview of when flooding is more likely to occur in each state:

  1. New South Wales (NSW): Flooding can occur throughout the year, but the most common period is during the summer months, particularly from December to February.
  2. Queensland (QLD): Flooding is most common during the wet season, which typically runs from November to April.
  3. Victoria (VIC): Flooding in Victoria is more likely to occur during the winter and spring months, from June to October, due to increased rainfall and snowmelt.
  4. South Australia (SA): Flooding in South Australia is less common compared to other states. However, it can occur during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly in winter and spring.
  5. Western Australia (WA): Flooding in Western Australia is more prevalent in the northern regions during the wet season, which typically occurs from November to April. In the southern regions, flooding is less common but can occur during winter months.
  6. Tasmania (TAS): Flooding in Tasmania is more likely to occur during the winter and spring months, from June to October, due to increased rainfall and snowmelt.
  7. Northern Territory (NT): Flooding in the Northern Territory is most common during the wet season, which typically runs from November to April. Heavy rainfall and tropical cyclones can cause significant flooding in the NT.
  8. Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Flooding in the Australian Capital Territory is more likely to occur during the autumn and summer months, from September to February, due to increased rainfall and storm events.

It's important to note that these are general trends, and flooding can occur outside of these periods due to unpredictable weather events. It is always advisable to stay informed about weather forecasts and warnings issued by local authorities to be prepared for potential flooding.

How to prepare for floods?

To prepare your business and home for floods, follow these steps:

General preparedness:

  • Stay informed: Regularly check weather forecasts and warnings from reliable sources.
  • Maintain your property:
    • If in a tenanted property, report any issues to your landlord.
    • Inspect and maintain windows, doors, and roofs.
    • Regularly clean gutters and drains.
    • Trim overhanging branches and trees.
    • Secure or bring indoors any loose outdoor items.
  • Create an emergency plan: Develop a comprehensive plan for evacuation, communication, and safeguarding important assets ensuring all staff are trained/aware of the plan.
  • Review insurance coverage: Consult your broker to ensure your policies provide adequate coverage for storm-related damages.

Pending event:

  • Stay updated:Contact your local council for information on previous flood levels in your area. Monitor weather updates and warnings closely.
  • Secure your premises: Secure windows and doors with weather shutters or other protective coverings.
  • Protect important assets: Back up data and move valuable equipment to safe areas.
  • Communicate: Inform employees about the emergency plan and their roles.
  • Test backup systems: Ensure generators or uninterruptible power supplies are in working order.

Post-event:

  • Ensure the safety of you and your staff: Check for hazards before going outside.
  • Follow the directions of local authorities: Take instructions from emergency services or local government agencies.
  • Secure your property: Take immediate steps to prevent further damage.
  • Check utilities: Verify the status of water, gas, and electricity. Contact utility companies if needed.
  • Clear debris: Safely remove any fallen branches or debris or contact the State Emergency Services (SES) if not safe to do so.
  • Address repairs: Make necessary temporary repairs to prevent further damage or ensure safety.
  • Document damage: Record or photograph any flood-related damage for insurance purposes.
  • Stay informed: Keep updated on local news and recovery efforts.
  • Seek assistance: Reach out to authorities, community organizations, or support networks if needed.
  • Contact Gallagher: As soon as possible, provide detailed information and evidence of the damage.

General preparedness:

  • Stay informed: Stay informed about flood watch warnings issued by reliable sources. If your area and access routes are under threat, these warnings may escalate to a flood evacuation warning.
  • Maintain your property:
    • If in a tenanted property, report any issues to your landlord.
    • Inspect and maintain windows, doors, and roofs.
    • Regularly clean gutters and drains.
    • Trim overhanging branches and trees.
    • Secure or bring indoors any loose outdoor items.
  • Create an emergency plan: Develop a comprehensive plan for evacuation, communication, and safeguarding important assets.
  • Review insurance coverage: Consult your broker to ensure your policies provide adequate coverage for storm-related damages.

Pending event:

  • Stay updated: Monitor weather updates and warnings closely.
  • Secure your premises: Secure windows and doors with weather shutters or other protective coverings. Sandbag toilets to prevent sewage overflow.
  • Vehicles should be fuelled ready to leave: If you are on the water and plan to leave by boat, have it secured where you can reach it.
  • Protect important assets: Secure hazardous items, move vehicles and appliances to a higher level, and protect it with waterproof covers.
  • Switch off utilities: Turn off water, gas, and power, disconnecting fuses, remove lightbulbs, and empty fridges.
  • Test backup systems: Where available ensure generators or uninterruptible power supplies are in working order.

Post-event:

  • Ensure your safety: Check for hazards before going outside.
  • Follow the directions of local authorities: Take instructions from emergency services or local government agencies.
  • Secure your property: Take immediate steps to prevent further damage.
  • Check utilities: Verify the status of water, gas, and electricity. Contact utility companies if needed.
  • Clear debris: Safely remove any fallen branches or debris or contact the State Emergency Services (SES) if not safe to do so.
  • Address repairs: Make necessary temporary repairs to prevent further damage or ensure safety.
  • Document damage: Record or photograph any storm-related damage for insurance purposes.
  • Stay informed: Keep updated on local news and recovery efforts.
  • Seek assistance: Reach out to authorities, community organisations, or support networks if needed.
  • Contact Gallagher: As soon as possible, provide detailed information and evidence of the damage.

Storm warnings and information

Stay informed, seek assistance when needed, and prioritise your safety and wellbeing. Here are some important information and warnings issued by authorities during floods:

It is important to stay updated with weather forecasts, warnings, and information from reliable sources such as the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and local emergency services. Following their advice and taking necessary precautions can help ensure personal safety during storms in Australia.

If you are affected and need to report damage, the Gallagher Claims team is here to help. You can complete our online form here or contact the Gallagher Claims team as soon as possible.

Essential resources for flood preparedness

Emergency resources

Police/Fire/Ambulance: 000
State Emergency Service (SES): 132 500
Police attendance: 131 444

Claims resources

Gallagher 24/7 claims 1800 254 287 hotline.
Alternatively use the online claims form to lodge a case with us.
Sources

1Floods | Australian Climate Service (acs.gov.au)

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