Preparing Your Property for a Tropical Cyclone in Regional NSW

4 Mar

Living in regional NSW means enjoying a beautiful climate, lush landscapes, and a slower pace of life—but it also means being prepared for the occasional tropical cyclone. While these powerful storms may not strike frequently, knowing how to prepare your property inside and out can make all the difference when a cyclone is on its way. By taking a few key steps before the winds and rain arrive, you can help protect your home, your belongings, and most importantly, your loved ones.

Start with the Outside

Cyclones are known for their high winds, heavy rain, and flying debris. The first step to safeguarding your property is to focus on the outside.

Check your roof and gutters: Before cyclone season, ensure your roof is in good condition. Repair loose tiles, fix any leaks, and clear your gutters of leaves and debris. This helps prevent water damage and keeps drainage systems functioning properly.
Trim trees and remove loose branches: Overhanging trees and loose branches can become dangerous projectiles during a cyclone. Regularly prune trees near your home and remove dead or damaged limbs.
Secure outdoor furniture and loose items: Patio furniture, garden tools, pots, and toys can become hazardous in strong winds. Store these items indoors or secure them with heavy weights or straps.
Reinforce fences and sheds: If you have fencing, sheds, or other outdoor structures, make sure they’re firmly anchored. Repair any loose panels, hinges, or supports.
Inspect windows and doors: Check that all windows and doors close securely. Consider installing cyclone-rated shutters or storm panels if you’re in a particularly vulnerable area. At a minimum, keep plywood or boards on hand to cover windows in case of a severe storm.

Prepare the Inside of Your Home

Once the exterior is secure, turn your attention to the inside of your home. Preparing the interior helps keep you and your family safe, minimizes damage, and makes recovery much smoother.

Create a safe room: Identify the safest room in your home—ideally a small, windowless space on the ground floor. This is where you’ll shelter if the cyclone intensifies. Stock it with a first-aid kit, a battery-powered radio, water, non-perishable food, and extra flashlights.
Protect important documents and valuables: Store important paperwork (birth certificates, insurance policies, passports) in waterproof, portable containers. Keep them in a safe spot where they can be quickly accessed if you need to evacuate.
Unplug electrical items: To prevent damage from power surges, unplug appliances, electronics, and any non-essential devices.
Stock up on essentials: Make sure you have plenty of batteries, candles, and matches. Charge power banks and mobile devices in advance. Have enough water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning—about 10 litres per person per day for at least three days.
Plan for pets: If you have pets, ensure they have proper identification and are safely contained. Stock up on pet food, medications, and comfort items. If you need to evacuate, have a pet carrier or leash ready.

Additional Regional NSW Considerations

In regional NSW, communities may face unique challenges, including more isolated homes, fewer evacuation centres, and longer recovery times. Consider these additional steps:

Stay informed through local channels: Rely on trusted sources like ABC Emergency Radio, SES updates, and the Bureau of Meteorology. Local updates often include specific regional information that can help you make timely decisions.
Communicate with neighbours: In smaller communities, it’s common to rely on neighbours for support. Check in with them before a cyclone hits to share plans, resources, and contact information. Working together can make a big difference.
Prepare for potential isolation: Regional areas may experience longer delays in services after a cyclone. Have extra supplies on hand, including prescription medications, long-lasting food, and fuel for generators or vehicles.
Know your local evacuation routes: If evacuation becomes necessary, be familiar with the safest routes out of your area. Have a plan for where you’ll go and how you’ll get there.

After the Storm
Preparation doesn’t stop once the cyclone passes. When it’s safe to do so, assess your property for damage, check for fallen power lines, and start cleaning up debris. If you prepared in advance, the recovery process will be far smoother. Contact your insurer promptly if you need to make a claim, and be mindful of local warnings about floodwaters, unstable structures, and contaminated water supplies.

Stay Prepared, Stay Safe
Tropical cyclones are a reminder of nature’s power, but with careful preparation, you can reduce risks and protect what matters most. By focusing on both the exterior and interior of your property—and considering the specific challenges of living in regional NSW—you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever comes your way. Remember, preparation is key to safety, peace of mind, and a faster recovery once the storm passes.