Care Blogs

Storm Watch

Helping clients stay resilient against Australia's deadliest storms

Severe weather events, particularly storms, are among the top causes of insurance claims in manufacturing, hospitality, and retail. Historical data shows that property damage from storms, flooding, and other natural disasters consistently ranks near the top for both claims volume and value.

For businesses in these sectors, downtime from weather-related damage directly impacts revenue, supply chains, and customer trust. Storms and related events such as hail, high winds, and flooding account for a significant portion of total insured losses annually in Australia.

SafetyCulture Care data shows that storms, cyclones, floods, and hail have led to 1,186 claims worth over $79 million in total, with an average claim of $66,735. Historical records show similar patterns, with weather-related property damage consistently ranking at the top of claims volume and value.

Understanding Australia’s Storm Profile

Australia’s summer storms are no longer predictable seasonal events. Increasingly, they signal the urgent need for preparedness. Severe storms can include flash flooding, winds over 90 km/h, hail of 2 cm or more, and even tornadoes.

Common storm types include:

Thunderstorms and hailstorms fuelled by heat, humidity, and unstable air.
Southerly busters, sudden cold surges causing late-day storms.
Black nor’easters, moisture-rich north-easterly storms along the east coast.
East Coast Lows (ECLs), powerful maritime cyclones bringing heavy rainfall and coastal flooding.
Tropical cyclones, which, while rare in the south, can be highly destructive in northern Australia.

Storms in Australia are not just increasing in frequency but are also intensifying in their impact. This shift means timely preparation is more critical than ever.

Preventive Measures Brokers Can Recommend

Brokers can play an important role in helping clients reduce their exposure to storm-related losses. This is not simply about advising on cover but about enabling clients to take concrete steps before a large storm event begins.

Building and Site Maintenace

Roofing: Schedule regular inspections by a qualified roofer at least once a year, or twice in cyclone-prone regions. Look for loose or damaged tiles or sheeting, deteriorated seals, and rust.

Gutters and downpipes: Keep them clear of debris to prevent water from backing up into the roof cavity. Ensure downpipes direct water away from the building’s foundation.

Windows and doors: Inspect and replace worn or damaged seals. In high-risk areas, consider permanent storm shutters or security screens. Applying impact-resistant film can prevent glass from becoming dangerous projectiles.

Structural elements and signage: Secure all external signs and inspect cladding, awnings, or attachments for stability.

Landscaping and grounds: Regularly trim trees and remove weak branches. Secure outdoor furniture, signage, bins, and unused equipment to prevent them from becoming airborne hazards.

Drainage: Clear stormwater drains, pits, and culverts on the property to reduce the risk of flash flooding.

Pro tip: This Cyclone Preparation Checklist is a great tool to share with clients. It walks them through simple pre-storm tasks that reduce damage to their site and help them stay ready before cyclone and monsoon season hits.

Gamifying Storm Preparedness for Staff

Turning preparedness into a structured challenge can boost staff engagement and ensure procedures are second nature. Using the SafetyCulture platform:

Manufacturing

Create a timed “Evacuation Route” checklist with QR code checkpoints. The app automatically records completion times and can rank results.

Hospitality

Develop scenario-based quizzes in the Learning module where staff choose the best response for guest safety during a simulated storm alert.

Retail

Set up a “Prep Sprint” checklist for securing stock, covering windows, and protecting displays, complete with time-stamped photo submissions.

IoT and Sensor-Based Monitoring

Deploying smart sensors allows for early detection and intervention before damage escalates.

Manufacturing

Install flood sensors in warehouse low points to trigger alerts for moving raw materials to safety.

Hospitality

Place temperature and humidity sensors in cold storage to prevent spoilage during power outages.

Retail

Use glass-break sensors on shopfronts to receive immediate alerts when hail or debris shatters windows.

Pro Tip: With SafetyCulture's platform, businesses can easily set up weather alerts to monitor outdoor temperature, humidity, and wind conditions in real-time (no device required!)

Does your client need to close awnings and umbrellas on a windy day? Weather alerts can send notifications when high winds exceed a pre-set threshold. This means their team can take immediate action, securing the premise before the storm hits.

The Broker's Advantage

Brokers who go beyond policy discussions to provide practical, preventive advice position themselves as trusted partners in risk management. The ability to share industry-specific, actionable steps can help clients avoid losses, protect revenue, and recover faster after severe weather events.

With the right tools, such as SafetyCulture’s inspections, training modules, and sensor technology, businesses can operationalise their storm preparation strategies and measure readiness over time. For brokers, these capabilities represent a clear value-add and a way to strengthen long-term client relationships.

Book a consultation

Book a 30-minute consult with our Risk Solutions team to have a risk-led discussion about how we can support your customers reach their business goals and best mitigate risk across their organisation.

Book now

^{Insurance products are issued by SafetyCulture Care Australia Pty Ltd ABN 54 662 653 303 AFSL 544306 (SafetyCulture Care).}

^{We do not provide any advice based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Policy terms, conditions, limits, exclusions, and underwriting criteria apply. Before making a decision, please read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement / Policy Wording and, for retail products, Target Market Determination. These documents are available from our website or upon request.}