Storms

There are two types of severe storms — thunderstorms and land gales. Thunderstorms can produce hail, wind gusts, flash floods, tornadoes and lightning, which can cause death, injury and damage to property. Thunderstorms are more common and generally more dangerous than land gales. Land gales are gale force winds that occur over the land.

Preparing

  • Be aware of severe storm patterns in your area.
  • Trim trees, remove overhanging branches, clear gutters and downpipes, remove loose material and rubbish.
  • Secure loose roof tiles or sheets.
  • Protect skylights with wire mesh and fit shutters to glass windows and doors.
  • Prepare an emergency kit.
  • Check boats are securely moored or protected on land.
  • Check home insurance is current and adequate including building debris clean up and disposal.

On Approach

  • Listen to a radio station for severe storm advice and warnings.
  • Shelter and secure animals.
  • Put loose garden furniture, toys, etc inside.
  • Park vehicles undercover with firmly tied tarpaulins/blankets.
  • Secure all external doors and windows and draw curtains.
  • Keep valuables, medications, and spare clothing in plastic bags and keep your emergency kit handy.
  • Disconnect all electrical items, external TV/radio aerials and computer modems.

On Arrival

  • Listen to your radio for updates.
  • Stay inside and shelter well clear of windows, doors and skylights.
  • If the building starts to break up, shelter in the strongest part (cellar, internal room, hallway or built-in wardrobe) under a mattress, doona or strong table or bench.
  • If outdoors, seek solid and enclosed shelter.
  • If driving, stop clear of trees, power lines and streams.
  • Don’t use a fixed telephone during a storm because of the lightning danger.

After

  • Listen to your radio station for official advice and warnings.
  • Check for structural property damage and make repairs.
  • For emergency assistance, contact the State Emergency Service (SES) on 13 25 00 (24 hours).
  • Beware of fallen powerlines and trees, damaged buildings and flooded watercourses.
  • Don’t go sightseeing.