Flood

Floods can cause injuries and death, damage to major roads and infrastructure, cut essential services, stop the delivery of freight, isolate communities, destroy property and livelihoods. Mental healing can take longer than physical.


Flooding could happen anywhere, at any time and from a variety of water sources including rivers, overflowing catchments areas upstream and storm tides. Mostly due to heavy rainfall caused by tropical lows and cyclones. The flow can originate as far inland as the eastern side of the Great Northern Highway between the section of approximately 140km south of Newman and 160km north of Meekatharra.


The physical damage to property can be traumatizing and cause great hardship. Being affected by a flood can be an extremely emotional time. Recovery can be slow, stressful and costly.
There are a few things you can do to help keep you, your family and your property safer in the event of a flood. It is worth spending a few hours ensuring your home is secure, preparing an emergency kit and flood plan can help you to survive the effect of a flood.

The Department of Fire & Emergency Services launched the 'Flood Safety' campaign which helps you prepare for Floods.

FLOOD PREPARATION

People who prepare for a flood before it happens are more likely to keep themselves, their families and pets safe. Find out about preparing your flood plan and steps you can take to reduce the impact and damage from floodwaters.

You should prepare your home and property for potential flooding.

  • Check your home, contents and car insurance cover are in order.
  • Identify where and how to turn off the electricity, gas and water mains.
  • Purchase emergency equipment such as containers to store drinking water, extra fuel supplies and hessian bags for sandbags.
  • Store all chemicals and poisons well above ground level.
  • Identify items that you will want to raise if floodwaters threaten your home.
  • Consider alternatives to carpet floor coverings.
  • Relocate electricity sockets and power points to well above floor level.
  • Close and lock doors and windows and draw blinds and curtains.
  • Move furniture, clothing and valuables to the highest point possible in your house.
  • Prepare and lay sandbags (to prevent water entering your home).
  • Relocate and secure all outdoor loose items, including chemicals and poisons.
  • Disconnect electrical appliances and all external television and radio aerials (if instructed by emergency services).
  • Turn off electricity, water and gas main supplies (if instructed).
  • Move your vehicle to higher, safer ground.

DURING A FLOOD

If a flood is expected, and you have time before it arrives, there are a number of things you can do to keep your property and belongings safe.

  • Follow directions on how to stay safe in the official warning on Emergency WA.
  • Remind everyone in your household of your flood plan, including for pets and animals.
  • Secure you property inside and out
  • Locate your emergency kit and add your additional items.
  • Make sure everyone knows to call 000 in a life-threatening situation.
  • Check on family, friends and neighbours.

AFTER A FLOOD

Floods cause severe damage and disruptions to households and communities. Find out what to expect after a flood and what action you can take to recover.

  • These simple steps will help you and your family get back to normal:
  • Seek support from welfare organisations.
  • Talk to your family, friends and neighbours about their experience.
  • Rely on official information from the authorities.
  • Get involved in community activities when you feel comfortable.
  • Have comprehensive insurance.
  • Try to get your children back into their normal routine as quickly as possible.

DRIVING IN A FLOOD

Simple message... DON'T!!
It is not safe to drive through flood water.

You may think your 4WD will be safe to drive through a flooded area. You will never know 100% what lies beneath the water. Roads and bridges could be washed away. Some tips to determine if your 4WD may be suitable to the conditions:

  • If the water level is up to your knee, don't drive it
  • If the water is flowing, don't drive it
  • If you're ever unsure, don't drive it

Get out and Check... Don't trust what you can see. Flood water is opaque, you can't see through it. So do the knee deep test, if it is safe!

FACT SHEETS

DFES has provided a number of fact sheets. Please take some time to read them. It could prevent you or a member of your family from injury or death.

Driving in Flood Waters

Travelling During the Wet Season

STAYING INFORMED

Radio
Community Alerts are available on the local radio, ABC Midwest and television stations. It is a good idea to have a battery-operated AM/FM radio with extra batteries on hand to keep up to date with the regular updates broadcasted.


Available Radio Stations for Geraldton and Midwest

  • ABC MIDWEST & WHEATBELT

Download the ABC Listen App on Apple or Android devices, and select ABC Midwest & Wheatbelt - Note this will only be accessible if mobile data signal is available.

Television

Keep your eye on the weather forecasts on all free to air channels.


Websites and APPS