Surviving a major storm is a cause for relief, but once the worst has passed, the road to recovery begins. Knowing what steps to take in the aftermath can help protect your safety, assess the damage, and start the claims process efficiently.
For detailed guidance on storm and cyclone recovery, emergency support and making a claim after a severe weather event, visit our Catastrophe and Severe Weather Hub.
Immediately after
Before stepping outside to inspect the damage, ensure the storm is truly over. In the case of cyclones, for instance, you may be in the storm’s ‘eye,’ with more severe weather yet to come. Ideally, you should check local radio broadcasts and sources such as the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) or ABC Emergency for an all-clear before venturing outside.
When it's safe to go out, wear sturdy boots and protective clothing, and keep children and pets indoors. Scan the immediate area for hazards such as fallen power lines, gas leaks, damaged buildings and fallen trees. Report fallen power lines and gas leaks immediately and return to the house to await the arrival of emergency services personnel.
Emergency services and home insurance groups warn that a significant number of storm-related injuries can occur after the storm has passed, so don’t take risks. Exercise caution and wait for help.
Soon after
Once the immediate dangers have been addressed, assess the damage to your property. Walk around your home, looking for obvious signs of damage such as missing roof tiles, broken windows or structural damage. Take detailed notes and photos for your insurance claim.
Be careful when walking around your property and ensure you wear protective clothing. Look out for broken glass, nails and other debris. Also be on the lookout for snakes, which may have been forced to find shelter or higher ground during the storm. Use a stick to poke through debris, rather than your hands.
If your home is insured, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage and begin the claims process. For Youi customers, claims can be lodged online 24/7 or via phone at 13 YOUI (9684).
If you need additional support during the recovery process, Disaster Assist provides resources for Australians affected by natural disasters, including government assistance programs and financial relief options.
In the meantime, beware of opportunistic contractors offering quick repairs. Avoid signing any agreements without verifying their credentials and checking with your insurance provider first.
Over time
Recovering from a major storm is not just about repairing physical damage – it can also take a toll emotionally. Feelings of anxiety, frustration or sadness are common after a disaster. If you or a loved one are struggling, reach out for support. Youi provides resources and support services for vulnerable customers who may need extra assistance during recovery.
Children may be particularly vulnerable, needing reassurance that their home and surroundings are safe again. Re-establishing routines as soon as possible can help provide a sense of stability.
For emergency relief and recovery services to help your community rebuild, the Red Cross offers assistance to those in need.
Additional support
Recovering from a severe storm can be overwhelming. For more information on lodging a claim, emergency support or recovering from severe weather events, visit Youi’s Catastrophe and Severe Weather Hub.
Above all, remember that recovery is a step-by-step process. Take safety precautions, tackle challenges one at a time and remind yourself of the most important thing – that you and your loved ones are safe.
