Look, the often-maligned BOM (Bureau of Meteorology) might not always nail the forecast – remember last year, much of the country was headed for drought! But this time around, the climate boffins are waving the warning flags[i] advising Aussie communities to brace themselves for a wild ride during the severe weather season, which runs from now until April. Moreover, we could be in for the whole breadth of Mother Nature’s nastiest – tropical cyclones, severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. So, time to buckle up, and get prepared.

1. Preparing for cyclones

The BOM’s National Community Information Manager, Andrea Peace, says, “Tropical cyclone activity varies from year to year, but an average of four tropical cyclones cross Australia’s coast each year. Based on historical patterns alone, a near-average number of tropical cyclones in the Australian region could be expected this season, with a higher proportion likely to be more severe.

“Any tropical cyclone can be dangerous, and it only takes one to significantly impact communities. Last year, we had 8 tropical cyclones across northern Australian waters. Four crossed our coast bringing damaging winds and heavy rainfall leading to flooding.”

With this warning in mind, there are several steps to prepare a property for cyclones, including inspecting roofs and balconies to ensure they’re up to handling extreme weather such as cyclones and, if repairs are required, getting onto them pronto.

Wind and rain will find any weak spots, so it’s crucial to check all parts of the structure – roof cladding, fascias, gutters, window seals, skylights, whirly birds, and roof-to-wall connections – for loose or missing fittings, rust, rot, UV damage, and insect damage. Moreover, regular tree inspections can prevent potential damage during cyclonic winds – so if required, be sure to trim back branches and trees that could be smashed into your property. Then, if a cyclone is heading your way, be sure to tie down or pack away any loose items. Strong winds can pick these items up, cause damage to homes, and even endanger people.

1. Planning for bushfires

The BOM warns that Australia faces an increased risk of severe and extreme heatwaves over the warmer months. The Bureau issues heatwave warnings when a severe or extreme heatwave is forecast within the following four days. This can lead to dangerous and destructive bush fires throughout Australia.

The BOM’s Andrea Peace says, “The Bureau works closely with fire authorities to monitor weather conditions, issue fire danger ratings and warnings to keep the community informed.

“Fire authorities are advising an increased fire risk in the spring months for parts of Queensland, the Northern Territory, western Victoria and south-east South Australia.

“They also advise a potential early start to the fire season in parts of South Australia and Victoria and extending to Tasmania if there are warm and dry conditions leading into summer.”

Householders can take a few simple but effective steps to prepare for bushfire season. Start by ensuring a functional garden hose can reach the perimeter of your property, and regularly check hoses and fittings to ensure they’re in good working order. Having a reliable water source is essential during a bushfire. Additionally, make sure to clean gutters and remove flammable debris frequently. Safely store woodpiles, trim overhanging branches, and keep your lawn well-maintained to minimise fire risks.

Another smart precaution is managing combustible materials. Store flammable liquids and paint safely away from the property and keep barbecue gas bottles in a fire-safe location. Be especially cautious when barbecuing during windy bushfire conditions.

As severe weather approaches, it’s vital to engage with your neighbours. Share bushfire safety tips to strengthen community resilience, and discuss plans and precautions, particularly if you live near bushland or parks. Also, have your own fire plan down pat. This plan should consider your family’s age, mobility, pet transport, and evacuation routes, having multiple options in case of closures. Keep a ‘bushfire box’ with essentials such as water, snacks, a torch, a first aid kit, and important documents such as passports ready to grab and go.

If you’re in a bushland area, work with your local council or the Rural Fire Service (RFS) to maintain a cleared firebreak to help protect your neighbourhood.

1. Preparing for heatwaves

Before the temperature starts to soar, there are a few easy steps you can take to prepare your property for heatwave conditions. First, check that your fans and air conditioners are in good working order—if not, get them serviced.

Consider choosing curtains that reflect heat. Curtains with pale linings in rooms with plenty of sunlight can help keep the heat out – and make it easier and more cost efficient for air conditioners to keep the property cool. Consider adding shutters or shading to windows facing west, as these rooms tend to get the hottest in the afternoon when the sun sets.

Prepare a cool room in your house by using air conditioning, fans, curtains, and blinds to create a comfortable space during the heatwave’s peak. By focusing on cooling one central room, you can also trim the costs of running fans and air conditioners throughout the house.

Additionally, ensure your property can manage its temperature without compromising security. Proper ceiling and wall insulation will help keep your house cool and energy-efficient during scorching days.

1. Get ready for severe thunderstorms

During the warmer months, severe thunderstorms are more common, bringing heavy rainfall, damaging winds, large hail and the risk of flooding anywhere in Australia according to the BOM.

The highest risk for severe thunderstorms is usually along the east coast, including northern New South Wales and southern Queensland. During the wet season, there’s also a significant risk through inland Western Australia and across the tropical north[ii].

Just like prepping for a cyclone, making sure your roof is secure is essential when getting ready for severe storm season. A unloved roof can allow water to seep into your home, so repair any existing damage and check that nothing is loose.

Clean your gutters, downpipes, and drains. Keeping your gutters clear not only protects against stormwater damage but can also prevent embers causing flaming problems during bushfire season. To keep gutters debris-free, regularly trim trees and branches around your property. Routine roof inspections can also help identify potential hazards from high winds.

Don’t forget to secure any outdoor items in your yard and on balconies. Strong winds can turn loose items into dangerous projectiles.

1. Preparing for flash flooding

Severe thunderstorms can also lead to flooding. The BOM warns that flash and riverine flooding are more common during severe weather seasons, particularly across northern and eastern Australia.

When minimising the risks from flash flooding, the starting point is being aware of the risk levels. Depending on your property’s location, check with your local council, catchment management authority, water authority, or territory government to see whether your property is at a high risk of flooding.

Also, have an emergency flood plan, especially if you live in a high-risk location – and then practice it with your household. Understand the warnings and signs that will trigger your flood plan – the BOM (http://www.bom.gov.au/water/floods/index.shtml) is responsible for providing an effective flood forecasting and warning service in each Australian state and territory. Know in advance your flood-safe evacuation routes, where you will stay if rising waters force you to evacuate and who you will contact. Organise an emergency kit and protect sentimental belongings such as family photos and expensive artworks by placing them on high shelves or in waterproof bags.

If a flood is headed your property’s way, be sure to move what household items you can to a higher point and place furniture, rugs and electrical equipment on beds and tables. Turn off the electricity, gas and water and stow poisons away on high shelves to help reduce the risk of contaminated flood water.

Also, remove debris around your property to help minimise floodwater flotsam and jetsam levels. This will help lower the risk of damage from loose objects during storms and high winds to your property and those of your neighbours.

For more tips on preparing your property for Australia’s severe weather season, contact your local Riane & Horne office.

[i] https://media.bom.gov.au/releases/1235/prepare-now-for-australias-severe-weather-season/

[ii] https://media.bom.gov.au/releases/1235/prepare-now-for-australias-severe-weather-season/