Natural disasters affect Queenslanders more than anyone else in Australia. Being prepared for severe weather is an important part of living here.
The most common types of disasters that can happen in Queensland are:
- Floods,
- Storms,
- Cyclone and Storm Surges and,
- Bushfires.
Everyone's disaster risk is different. Where you live determines the types of natural disasters that affect you. Some disasters such as pandemic and heatwave can happen to anyone at any time.
To prepare your home or business, the first step is to find out what disasters you are most likely to see and the time of the year they might happen. Then, think about what impact the disaster could have on you, your family and your property.
It is easy to learn about your disaster risk, even if you are new to Queensland.
Use the links below to find out your risks. Then sit down with everyone in your household to talk about what you have learned.
Where Do Natural Disasters Happen?
Where you live affects the likelihood of different weather events happening to you. Find out what natural disasters are most common to where you live.
Floods also affect people who live at the bottom of hills and in low-lying areas. If there is a lot of rain, the water will flow down hills and will collect at the bottom.
Storms can also occur anywhere in Queensland. They can happen on hot and humid days and can be very common in Summer.
People living in North and Far North Queensland get cyclones more often than other Queenslanders. This is because of the hotter climate.
Strong winds can make bushfires very dangerous. On hot windy days, check to see if bushfires are in your area.
Make sure you're covered
Queensland has had almost 90 severe natural disasters since 2011.
Many people find out too late that they do not have the right insurance for their property and assets.
Whether you're a home owner or renter, check your policy to see what you're covered for. Call your insurer and ask a few questions to make sure you're covered.
Find out more and Get Ready
Check out these other pages and resources to help you Get Ready.