Key Takeaways
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Flooding is Australia’s second deadliest natural disaster after heatwaves, highlighting the need for strong preparation.
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Major causes of floods in Australia include heavy rainfall, riverine overflow, storm surges, and coastal erosion.
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The most common types of floods are riverine, flash, estuarine, and coastal flooding, each with unique risks.
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Floods can cause severe property damage, financial loss, and health risks such as cholera, leptospirosis, and hepatitis A.
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Common flood-related accidents include drowning, slips, electrical shocks, animal bites, and injuries from debris.
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Flood preparation involves safeguarding your home, compiling emergency contacts, developing an evacuation plan, and assembling an emergency kit.
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An emergency kit should include food, water, first aid supplies, waterproofed documents, clothing, and pet essentials.
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During a flood, never drive through floodwaters, secure your emergency kit, and stay updated via radio or emergency services.
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After a flood, ensure safe return by wearing protective gear, cleaning up promptly to prevent mould, and documenting damages for insurance claims.
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Taking a CPR or first aid course equips you with life-saving skills crucial during flood emergencies.
According to the Australian Climate Service, a government-funded website providing data, intelligence, and expert advice on climate and natural hazard risks, flooding is Australia’s second deadliest natural disaster after heat waves.
Flood preparation in Australia involves making your home flood-resistant, compiling emergency contacts, and developing a clear flood plan. Assembling an emergency kit with essentials like food, water, first aid supplies, and waterproofed documents is also a must.
What are the Major Causes of Floods in Australia?
A flood occurs when water overflows onto land that is typically dry. Significant causes of floods in Australia include:
- Water levels exceeding the normal limits of a watercourse
- Changes in ocean levels
- Hefty rainfall
What are the Types of Floods in Australia?
According to the same source, Australian Climate Services, there are several types of floods in Australia:
- Riverine Flooding occurs when a watercourse, such as lakes, rivers, creeks, reservoirs, canals, and dams, overflows its banks and floods nearby low-lying areas. It is the most common type of flooding in Australia.
- Flash Flooding—This type of flooding occurs due to intense local rainfall, affecting areas far from rivers and streams.
- Estuarine flooding occurs when freshwater and saltwater mix, such as tidal lakes, lagoons, wetlands, and rivers.
- Coastal Flooding and Erosion – High tides, storm surges, and large waves cause these.
What are the Impacts of Floods?
Floods have several impacts on the community; these include:
Property Damage
Floodwaters can cause extensive damage to homes, businesses, infrastructure, and agricultural land. The costs of repairs and rebuilding can be very high, and in many cases, properties may become uninhabitable.
Health Risks
Floods pose significant health risks, including the following waterborne diseases:
- Cholera
- Leptospirosis
- Hepatitis A
Water contamination, exposure to hazardous materials, and increased mould and mildew are common during floods.
What are the Common Accidents During a Flood?
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, flooding causes these accidents and injuries:
- Drowning
- Slips and falls
- Electrical shocks
- Bites and stings from animals that have been displaced
- Burns
- Cuts from debris
What Should You Do Before a Flood?
Everyone needs to understand that flood preparation is the key to minimizing the impacts; these include:
Preparing Your Home
- Elevate electrical appliances and utilities.
- Install check valves in the plumbing to prevent sewage backup.
- Ensure proper drainage around your home.
- Identify where and how to turn off the electricity, gas and water mains.
- Store all chemicals and poisons well above ground level.
Compiling Emergency Contacts
Keep a list of essential contacts, including local emergency services, hospitals, and insurance companies. Make sure all family members are aware of these contacts.
Developing an Evacuation Plan
Create an evacuation plan with safe routes, meeting points, and transportation options. Practice the plan regularly with your family.
Assembling an Emergency Kit
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services of the Government of Western Australia lists the items you should include in your emergency kit or bag.
- Your flood plan and emergency contacts.
- Important documents like passports, IDs, and insurance certificates are in waterproof containers or envelopes.
- Non-perishable food and drinking water.
- Battery-powered radio and flashlight with extra batteries.
- Complete first aid kit.
- Toiletries and hygiene items.
- Supplies for infants, elderly, sick, and disabled individuals.
- Clothing and blankets.
- Your pet’s necessities.
- Spare house and car keys.
- Rescue signalling tools such as whistles and flashlights.
While emergency bags and first aid kits are essential, first aid training or taking a CPR course is also crucial for flood preparation. This ensures you can respond effectively in emergencies.
CPR First Aid (RTO NO 21903) offers a free online course to teach the basics of first aid. In-person training is also available at various centres across Australia.
What Should You Do During a Flood?
When Traveling
- Stop when you see floodwaters.
- Never drive through floodwaters. Drive away instead.
- Always follow road closures.
- Inform family and authorities where exactly you are.
When Staying at Home
If you choose to stay at home or you get stuck at home during a flood, remember to follow these helpful tips:
- Stay calm and keep aware of rising water.
- Sandbags can block toilets, doorways, and drains, preventing flood water from entering your house.
- Secure your emergency kit.
- Relocate family members and most important documents to the highest possible place.
- Inform family and authorities where exactly you are staying.
- Plan how to manage without electricity, water, and gas.
- Use a radio or any other communication device to stay informed about the latest updates on flood situations in your area.
What Should You Do After a Flood?
Returning Home Safely
Wait until the floodwaters have subsided and authorities have declared your area safe for return. Wear protective clothing such as rubber boots and gloves, and be cautious of potential hazards like structural damage, contaminated water, gas leaks, and wildlife.
Cleaning Up
- Use protective gear such as gloves and masks.
- Wash surfaces thoroughly to avoid flood-carrying infections.
- Remove water and mud as soon as possible to prevent mould growth.
- Dispose of contaminated items.
- Hire professionals for extensive damage.
Insurance Claims and Assistance
Contact your insurance company promptly to report the damage. Document the damage with photos and videos. Explore government and community assistance programs for additional support.
Conclusion
Floods are natural disasters that can cause widespread devastation, impacting communities and economies. Understanding the types of floods and their potential impacts and knowing what to do before, during, and after a flood can save lives and reduce property damage. Stay informed, be prepared, and take proactive measures to protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of flooding.