Weathering cyclone season in Mackay
A month into the new year and already Mackay has received over 150mm of rain this month, according to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), but it is the wet season or cyclone season.
Cyclone season officially runs from November 1 to May and during this time the Mackay region has a high risk of being impacted by cyclones.
As a Mackay resident, I have witnessed the destructive winds, heavy rainfall and storm tides that can affect Mackay during this time.
Therefore, I understand the importance of being proactive when it comes to cyclone season. It isn’t a recommendation, it’s a necessity.
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There are a few steps both homeowners and tenants can follow to ensure the safety of their loved ones and safeguard their properties during cyclone season.
Start by checking to see if your home has been built to cyclone standards. Generally, houses constructed after 1982 are but you can engage a qualified building certifier, structural engineer, architect or builder to inspect your house if you have doubts about the condition and/or ability to withstand a cyclone.
Know your evacuation zone (storm tide). Mackay has several low-lying areas at significant risk from storm tides. You can check your evacuation zone here on the Mackay Regional Council website.
Check that the roof, eaves and walls of your property are secure and make sure treetops and branches are trimmed well clear. Clean up any loose materials that could blow about during extreme winds possibly causing injury or damage and consider installing shutters or metal screens to all glass areas.
Prepare an emergency kit. According to the Department of Emergency Services, at a minimum, your emergency kit should include a portable, battery-operated AM/FM radio with spare batteries, a waterproof torch with extra batteries or a wind-up torch that doesn’t need batteries, a complete first-aid kit, bottled drinking water and non-perishable food items, can opener and cutlery, protective clothing, such as sturdy footwear, gloves and protective goggles/glasses, a waterproof bag containing important documents like passports, identification, insurance documents and prescriptions, precious items such as jewellery and medals, a cyclone plan, cash and toiletries and sanitary supplies. Also, keep a list of emergency phone numbers on display.
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In case of flooding or a storm surge/tide warning know the nearest safe high ground area and the safest access route to it.
Finally, keep a close eye on weather updates and cyclone potential throughout the season on BOM and Mackay Regional Council’s Emergency Dashboard.
Another key aspect of being prepared for cyclone season is having a comprehensive insurance plan. Ensure that your property insurance is up to date and covers potential storm-related damages. Review your policy carefully, taking note of any exclusions or limitations.
For property owners, conducting a thorough inspection of your home before storm season hits can help identify potential vulnerabilities. Addressing any maintenance issues, securing loose items around the property, and reinforcing doors and windows are essential steps to fortify your home against the elements. It’s also wise to trim overhanging branches and remove any dead or weak trees that could pose a threat during high winds.
Tenants, on the other hand, should communicate with their landlords or property managers to ensure that the property is adequately prepared for storm season. If you notice any maintenance issues that could jeopardise the property’s integrity during a storm, report them promptly. Collaborating with property owners and managers is crucial for creating a safe living environment for everyone.
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In the unfortunate event that a storm does cause damage to your property or rental, it’s important to act swiftly and responsibly. Document the damages with photographs and written descriptions, and report them to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Communication is key – inform your landlord or property manager promptly so that they can initiate the necessary repairs and coordinate with insurance assessors.
Yes, being prepared for the storm season in Mackay requires a proactive approach and from having a solid evacuation plan to ensuring that insurance is up to date, these steps can safeguard both life and property. Remember, storms may be unpredictable, but our preparedness doesn’t have to be.
Stay safe, stay informed, and together, we can weather any storm that comes our way.
Benjamin Molineux
Licensee/Director
Baileux Real Estate
