Prepare for a storm

Getting yourself and your household storm ready is your responsibility.

When to prepare

While the dangers of a storm can’t be prevented, you can prepare and reduce the amount of damage a storm can cause. Most damage is caused by flying objects, fallen trees and flooding from blocked gutters.

As storms can happen at any time and sometimes without much notice, it is best to prepare and maintain your property throughout the year.

Know the storm alerts and warnings

There are three warning levels which move up and down to reflect the risk to your life or property before, during or after a storm. These are the same warning levels as bushfire, flood and cyclone. After a storm, an Advice or Watch and Act will be issued depending on the hazards and risk still present. Storm Emergency Warnings will only be issued if there is an imminent threat to lives and homes. Most storms experienced during WA’s winter storm period or the wet season will escalate and de-escalate through Advice and Watch and Act only.

Prepare your storm plan

When a severe storm forms quickly there may not be much time to prepare yourself or your property. You will have a better chance of reducing damage and injury if everyone knows what to do and your property is well maintained.

For a storm plan template, please refer to our Storm Smart brochure.

Prepare an emergency kit

Your emergency kit must be kept in a waterproof plastic container or heavy-duty water-resistant bag. You may be without power, water and other essential services for some days after a severe storm.

Having an up to date emergency kit can better prepare your household for all hazards. Everyone in your household should know where the emergency kit is and be able to reach it.

Prepare your pets and livestock

When preparing your family and property for natural disasters, you also need to consider your pets and livestock.

Ensure that your pets are properly identified with a name tag or microchip or that you have a recent photo of them with you, and that stock registers for your livestock are current.

Find out more about pet and livestock welfare in an emergency by visiting the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website.

You can also ask your local government if there are pet or livestock welfare arrangements in place during an emergency.

Prepare your property

Keep branches and trees trimmed around structures and powerlines to prevent damage.
If needed, hire a contractor to clear trees from power lines.
Keep gutters clear so they drain freely.
Check for loose tiles and cladding on roofs to reduce leaks and risk of flying debris.
Check fastenings, joints and bolts on structures including carports and patios to make sure they are secure and not rusted.
Check your home, contents and car insurance cover are in order.
If flash flooding is a risk for your area, follow the flood property preparation advice.