Living along Australia’s stunning coastlines offers breathtaking views and a laid-back lifestyle, but it also comes with seasonal risks, especially during storm and cyclone season. From torrential rains and flash floods to high winds and prolonged power outages, coastal communities often find themselves on the frontlines of severe weather events.
Being prepared isn’t just smart, it’s essential. The key to staying safe during floods and cyclones lies in having a well-thought-out emergency kit tailored to the specific challenges of coastal living. Whether you're sheltering at home or evacuating on short notice, a comprehensive survival kit can make all the difference.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the must-have essentials every coastal household should have on hand to be ready for flood and cyclone season.
Why Coastal Preparedness Matters
Australia's coastal areas especially in Queensland, Northern NSW, the Northern Territory, and parts of Western Australia are particularly vulnerable to cyclones and flooding. Between November and April, severe weather systems can bring:
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Heavy rainfall leading to flash floods
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Storm surges and rising sea levels
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Damaging winds capable of destroying homes
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Extended power outages
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Disrupted water supply and communication lines
That’s why preparing a tailored survival kit is not just a precaution, it’s a necessity.
What to Include in Your Flood and Cyclone Survival Kit
A starter emergency kit is a great starting point, but for those living in coastal regions, it’s important to go a step further. Here's what your kit should include:
1. Clean Water Access
Floodwaters often contaminate drinking water supplies. Your kit should include:
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3 litres of water per person, per day (minimum three days' supply)
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Portable water filtration device, such as a Water Filter Straw
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Water purification tablets
2. Non-Perishable Food
Aim for lightweight, ready-to-eat items that require no refrigeration or cooking:
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Canned goods (with a manual can opener)
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Protein bars, nuts, dried fruits
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Dehydrated meals (if you have access to boiling water) or MRE (aka Meals Ready-to-Eat)
3. Shelter and Warmth
If your home is uninhabitable or you need to evacuate:
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Waterproof emergency tents or tarps (like the Life Tent)
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Thermal blankets or sleeping bags
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Ponchos and waterproof clothing
4. Lighting and Communication
Power and cell service may be unreliable, so be sure to include:
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Hand crank & solar-powered radio with built-in torch and USB charging
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LED headlamps or lanterns
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Extra batteries or power banks
5. First Aid and Medications
In emergencies, medical assistance may not be readily available. Stock your kit with:
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A comprehensive first aid kit (bandages, antiseptics, gauze, scissors, etc.)
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Essential personal medications
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Hand sanitiser and face masks
6. Hygiene and Sanitation
Floods can quickly turn into a public health risk due to contaminated water and limited access to hygiene facilities:
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Biodegradable wet wipes
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Toilet paper and sanitary items
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Waste bags and hand soap
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Toothbrushes and toothpaste
7. Important Documents and Cash
Keep copies of vital documents in a waterproof folder:
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IDs, insurance policies, medical records
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Emergency contacts list
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Some cash in small denominations (ATMs may not be available)
8. Tools and Safety Gear
For basic survival and repair tasks:
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Multi-tool knife
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Duct tape
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Rope and zip ties
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Work gloves and safety goggles
9. Evacuation Essentials
If you need to leave quickly:
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A Grab-and-Go Bag with enough supplies for each family member, like this 2-person Emergency Kit or 4-person Family Emergency Kit
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Spare clothing, socks and sturdy footwear
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Maps with marked evacuation routes
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Pet supplies, if you have animals
Top Tips for Coastal Emergency Preparedness
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Know your local risks: Understand your area’s flood and cyclone history and follow updates from the Bureau of Meteorology.
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Create an evacuation plan: Know where to go and how to get there. Plan multiple routes.
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Keep your kit up to date: Check expiry dates on food, water, and medications every 6 months.
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Store your kit in a waterproof container or dry bag: And keep it in an easily accessible location.
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Practice drills: Run through your emergency plan with the family so everyone knows their role.
How PrepMates Can Help
At PrepMates, we understand the unique challenges faced by Australians living in coastal regions. Our range of emergency kits, including the 4-person Crew Kit, 2-person Buddy Kit, and Emergency Preparedness Restock Kit, are designed to help you prepare for floods, cyclones, and more. Each kit is thoughtfully packed with high-quality, practical gear tailored to the Australian environment, so you can face the unexpected with confidence.
Final Thoughts
You can’t control the weather, but you can control how prepared you are for it. Investing in a well-stocked, coastal-ready emergency kit not only protects your family and property but also gives you peace of mind when disaster strikes.
Don’t wait for the next warning to take action. Start building or updating your emergency kit today. Because when it comes to survival, preparation is everything.