Storms can happen anywhere, at any time of the year. It is important to prepare your family and prepare your property now and stay prepared all year round. Storms are the most costly natural disaster to affect NSW, causing an estimated average of $217 million dollars damage annually. (Source: BTE 2008)

During storms it is important to protect your family and property from the major impacts such as strong winds, hail and rising water levels (flash flooding).

Damaging winds can bring down trees, branches, power lines, remove roofs and blow around outdoor items, for example outdoor furniture and trampolines

Hail can injure people and damage property

Heavy rainfall can cause water to:

• damage exposed homes and belongings
• rise rapidly, flooding homes, property and roads
• drain rapidly making floodwaters, drains, and other water courses a safety hazard

Damaging surf can be unsafe and flood homes and properties in coastal areas

You may also be indirectly affected by storms; access roads may be blocked or you have no power, utilities or telephone connection.