Flood and storm health risks and how to protect yourself

Understanding flood and storm health risks

Flood and storm health risks can affect your safety and wellbeing. Knowing what to do before, during and after severe weather can help you stay protected.

Here are some simple tips for looking after your health and wellbeing during these challenging times.

Preparing for floods and storms

Create an emergency plan:

• Create a family emergency plan with evacuation routes, emergency contacts and a safe meeting place using the SES NSW online emergency planning tool.

Prepare an emergency kit:

• Pack essential items such as bottled water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, medications, flashlights, batteries and important documents in a waterproof container.

Stay informed:

• Monitor weather updates and warnings through local news, the Bureau of Meteorology website and emergency services alerts.

Protect your home:

• Raise electrical appliances and furniture above potential flood levels.
• Clear gutters, downpipes and drains to reduce the risk of water damage.

Prepare for evacuation:

• Identify the nearest evacuation centres and plan for pet care, as many centres may not accommodate animals.

Staying safe during floods and storms

Avoid contact with floodwaters:

• Floodwaters often carry harmful substances, including sewage and chemicals. Avoid walking, swimming, or driving through them to reduce the risk of injury or illness.

Follow emergency alerts:

• Stay informed through local authorities and emergency services. Follow evacuation orders promptly to ensure your safety.

Use safe drinking water:

• Flooding can contaminate water supplies. Drink bottled water or boil tap water for at least one minute before using it for drinking, cooking or brushing your teeth.

Practice good hygiene:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water after contact with floodwaters, before eating and after using the toilet to reduce the risk of infection. Maintaining hygiene helps reduce common flood and storm health risks like gastroenteritis and skin infections.

Protect yourself from thunderstorm asthma and respiratory conditions:

• If you have asthma or another respiratory condition, take extra precautions during floods and storms.
• Stay indoors with windows and doors closed during thunderstorms or high-pollen seasons to minimise exposure to allergens.
• Use air purifiers if available and avoid areas with mould or dampness.
• Follow your Asthma Action Plan or respiratory management plan, and always carry your reliever medication.

Recovery and clean-up after floods and storms

Clean up safely:

• Wear protective gear, such as gloves, boots and masks, while cleaning.
• Remove debris and mud, then disinfect surfaces using diluted bleach or other disinfectants as per product instructions. For more information on how to disinfect, visit NSW Health Staying Healthy During and After Flood.

Handle food and water safely:

• Dispose of any food or beverages which have been exposed to floodwater, including canned items.
• Clean and disinfect utensils, cookware and kitchen surfaces before use.

Monitor your health:

• Stay alert to signs of illness linked to flood and storm health risks, including fever, diarrhoea or respiratory issues. Consult a GP if you feel unwell.
• Prevent mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved clothing, using insect repellents and removing standing water around your home.

Check for electrical hazards:

• Avoid using electrical appliances or outlets until they have been checked and deemed safe by a qualified electrician.

Take care of mental wellbeing:

• Speak to your GP.
• The aftermath of floods and storms can be emotionally draining. Stay connected with friends and family, or explore mental health services commissioned by SWSPHN.
  • Call Head to Health on 1800 959 212 for mental health support.
  • Service hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am–5pm (closed public holidays).

Additional resources

At-risk community members can prepare using the resources below:

Staying Healthy During and After Floods | NSW Health

Prepare for a Flood | NSW SES

Prepare for a Storm | NSW SES

Storm and Flood Preparation and Recovery | Service NSW

Thunderstorm Asthma | NSW Health

Asthma Triggers – Thunderstorm Asthma | Asthma Australia

Visit the Health Resource Directory for essential natural disaster health advice. Guidance is available in English, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese and Arabic.

Being prepared and staying informed can reduce the impact of flood and storm health risks on you and your family.

To learn more, visit Your health matters in a disaster