Community Safety After Severe Weather
What changes after a storm
Severe weather can leave hidden hazards in everyday spaces such as streets, parks, driveways, and around homes. Trees, fences, roofs, powerlines, and sheds may appear stable yet be weakened. Many injuries after storms occur during normal activities like walking, checking property, clearing debris, or commuting — not only during the peak of the storm. A thoughtful, cautious approach helps protect you and your community.
Why damaged trees remain risky
Storm-damaged trees and branches do not always fail immediately. Wet ground loosens roots and shifts soil, meaning a tree that stands today may fall later. Cracked branches, leaning trunks, and hanging limbs are warning signs even in calm weather. Give damaged trees and overhanging branches generous space. Treat fallen trees as unstable, especially if resting on fences, roofs, other trees, or powerlines, and avoid removing them without qualified assistance.
How debris leads to injury
Post-storm debris may include glass, nails, metal, broken timber, and roofing fragments. These increase the risk of cuts, punctures, falls, and collisions. Debris also blocks pathways and reduces road visibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. Wear sturdy footwear, move carefully, choose safer routes, and be especially cautious in low light and wet conditions.
When structures become unstable
Wind and water weaken walls, balconies, gutters, fences, sheds, and roofing. Something upright may still shift unexpectedly. Avoid entering damaged buildings, leaning on fences, or working near unstable areas. Report damage and use formal channels such as your insurer, landlord, builder, council, or state recovery services for safe assessment.
Supporting people with disability, mobility needs, and higher risk
People with mobility challenges, disability, sensory impairment, or frailty face greater risk around uneven ground, debris, and unstable structures. Clear walkways, stable support, safe access paths, and avoiding risky areas are important. Older adults may be more vulnerable to falls and lifting injuries. Where possible, arrange help rather than encouraging high-risk independent clean-up.
When to seek urgent medical care
Seek urgent care if someone experiences:
difficulty breathing, collapse, chest pain, or fainting
deep wounds, uncontrolled bleeding, or infected injuries
head injury, confusion, or sudden weakness
fever with worsening illness after exposure to debris
severe pain or significant trauma
deterioration in someone with chronic conditions, pregnancy complications, or concerns in children
Australian emergency contacts and support
Call Triple Zero (000) for life-threatening emergencies.
Contact the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500 for storm and flood assistance.
Follow guidance from local councils, state health departments, and emergency authorities for safety alerts, water safety information, evacuation advice, and clean-up support. If unsure about medical concerns, contact your GP or a hospital emergency department when accessible.
Health support and pacing recovery
After severe weather, people often feel pressure to act quickly. Safety improves when high-risk tasks are completed by trained professionals and decisions are not rushed. If you are injured, feel unwell, or develop new symptoms after storm exposure, your GP can assess, treat, and guide safe recovery.
This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.