As storm-related losses continue to mount across Australia, the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) is urging the public to strengthen their preparedness efforts.
In Victoria alone, storm damage is estimated to cost $28 million annually, making up a significant portion of the Victorian State Emergency Service’s incident responses.
Cyclone Alfred, which struck Queensland and New South Wales between February and March 2025, remains the largest weather-related insurance event this year. Revised figures from catastrophe data firm PERILS place the insured losses at $2.25 billion.
RACV’s general manager of home services, Bill Bloodworth, said emergency readiness is a shared obligation.
“Preparing for extreme weather events such as storms is the responsibility of households, communities, and governments,” he said. “Whether you own your home or are renting, there are actions you can take to prepare yourself for emergencies.”
RACV advises residents to stay updated using the VicEmergency website and app and to follow alerts issued by emergency services. Residents should also avoid travel during weather warnings unless absolutely necessary.
Storm preparation at the property level includes:
Unsecured objects such as umbrellas and furniture are common sources of property damage during high winds.
For drivers, RACV recommends caution under storm conditions, including reducing speed, increasing distance from other vehicles, and avoiding areas with potential hazards such as trees or powerlines. If visibility is significantly impaired, drivers should seek shelter in a safe, covered area.
With one in 10 Australian properties at risk of flooding, RACV recommends proactive planning. Flood readiness measures include:
Property owners in flood-prone areas may also consider structural modifications such as elevating homes or using water-resistant materials.
Hail risks can be reduced by parking vehicles under cover or using protective covers when a storm is forecast. Drivers on the road during hail should avoid stopping under trees or powerlines and wait out the storm in a secure location if possible.
Power outages are a frequent consequence of major storms. RACV advises households to maintain an emergency kit containing flashlights, backup batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, and a battery-powered radio. Charging mobile phones ahead of forecast events and switching off appliances can help prevent damage when power returns.
In the event of an outage, residents are encouraged to avoid opening refrigerators and freezers unnecessarily to keep contents at safe temperatures.
For information on outage durations and restorations, the public should monitor updates from electricity providers or the VicEmergency platform.
