Storm Safe

Storms may bring heavy rain, damaging winds, lightning, hail, floods and tornados to the southern half of Western Australia between May and October each year. However storms can occur during the warmer months so it is important to stay prepared all year round.

Storms develop when warm, humid air near the ground is pushed rapidly upward into an unstable atmosphere.

Damaging winds, flash flood, lightning, hail and tornados can cause damage to homes, cars and the environment. They can cause injury or loss of life.

Most storm damage to homes occurs from loose and broken roof materials, fallen trees and branches, and flooding from blocked gutters and downpipes. People can stay safe and reduce damage to their homes by being prepared.

How to prepare

Check your roof and gutters for damage or loose material
Clear gutters and downpipes of leaves and blockage
Trim branches near your home and hire a contractor to clear trees from powerlines
Clear rubbish from your yard, balcony or patio and put away any loose objects
Prepare an Emergency Kit with portable radio, torch, spare batteries, first aid kit and family emergency plan
Ensure your family understands storms and the risks
Prepare an emergency plan including a relocation plan in case your home becomes flooded. Consider what you will do with your pets and know how to turn off the gas, electricity and water supplies * Display a list of emergency phone numbers
Check you have adequate home and contents insurance

During a storm

Close your curtains and blinds and stay inside away from windows
If caught outside find safe shelter away from trees, powerlines, metal objects, storm water drains, rivers and streams.
If boating, swimming or surfing leave the water
If there is lightning, unplug electrical appliances and do not use landline telephones
If there is flooding you can create your own sandbags by using plastic bags or pillow cases filled with sand
If driving in heavy rain take extra care on the roads:
- Slow down, turn your lights on and keep a safe distance from other drivers
- If you cannot see, pull over and park with your hazard lights on until the rain clears
- Do not drive into water of unknown depth and current

If a storm has damaged your home

Storms and floods disrupt households and it is possible power, water, sewerage, and gas services may not be working.

You may find after a storm you need emergency accommodation, welfare support services, money, food or water.

Starts cleaning up around your home- stack loose material such as branches and debris away from water meters, valves and telephone lines.

Call your local government to get advice about the removal of green waste and other materials such as asbestos fencing.

For life-threatening emergencies call 000
If your home has been badly damaged and you need help call the SES on 132 500.

SES Volunteers assist the community by making temporary repairs to homes and businesses. It is your responsibility to organise permanent repairs.
SES volunteers will attend as soon as possible. Assistance is prioritised, please be patient.

If you have any insurance queries, contact the Insurance Council of Australia on 1300 728 228

For more information about Storm recovery download If a Storm has Damaged your Home (PDF - 389 KB)

For more information about Storm’s download Preparing for Storms (PDF 454 KB)