A severe storm over Redcliffe, north of Brisbane. Picture: Jason McNamara, Redcliffe
Fewer than two in five Aussies feel well-prepared for severe weather, despite four in five having already experienced it.
A Youi survey of over 2000 Australias has revealed an “alarming gap” between awareness and action with 81 per cent of respondents having experienced severe weather yet only 17 per cent have a detailed and practiced emergency plan.
And 41 per cent say they don’t know what steps to take.
The data also revealed that although most Australians recognised household risk factors and have taken proactive steps like clearing gutters (55%) or checking roof conditions (41%), preparation was being hindered by uncertainty.
“Nearly one in five Aussies have taken no steps to prepare themselves or their home in the past year, and 35 per cent believe severe weather won’t affect them – despite government assessments indicating weather events are likely to impact areas where they haven’t before,” the research revealed.
Severe storms over southeast Queensland recently. Picture: BoM
Youi’s executive general manager of claims Chris Jarrett said the research highlights a critical need for clearer public guidance and practical support.
“Australians aren’t short on awareness, they’re short on clear, actionable steps,” Jarrett said. “As extreme weather events become more frequent and severe, the cost of recovery is rising, and many people are finding themselves underprepared.
“Insurance is fundamentally about recognising future risks and being there when it matters most.”
Severe storm activity is set to intensify on Saturday. Picture: Windy
To help Aussies better prepare for severe weather, the insurer has launched its Severe Weather Hub to help Australians better understand and prepare for what’s ahead.
Co-founder and former CEO of Disaster Relief Australia Geoff Evans said the findings reflected what frontline responders have seen for years – that confidence without practice can be dangerous.
“Many Australians think they’re ready but haven’t taken the steps that truly make a difference when disaster strikes,” he said.
“Planning is important, but practising that plan is what saves lives.
“Preparedness isn’t just about having a checklist – it’s about building habits and community awareness.”
This house suffered significant damage after flooding rains hit Cairns during Cyclone Jasper in December 2023. Photo Facebook Kevin Sven Kainzinger
The Federal Government’s National Climate Risk Assessment has warned that extreme weather events will intensify and impact regions previously untouched.
The Youi survey revealed that generational and state differences also impacted preparedness levels.
“Gen Z and Millennials are more likely to have practised plans and feel confident, while Baby Boomers report the lowest levels of readiness despite greater lived experience,” the report said.
“Queenslanders lead the nation in proactive preparation (90%) and planning (75%), yet only 17 per cent have practised their emergency plan – and 64 per cent say they wouldn’t evacuate if advised.
Over one in three Australians recall a significant personal experience, with storms, hail and heatwaves most commonly, that stands out to them.
“These events evoke fear, isolation and helplessness, particularly for those without a plan or network.”
Jarrett said that “preparation isn’t just physical, it’s emotional. The right steps taken early can reduce stress and improve recovery”.
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Serious hail storms hit Queensland. Picture: Jo Potter, Warwick
The survey also revealed that insurance was often overlooked with six in 10 Aussies admitting that they had not checked their coverage in the past year and 15 per cent remained unsure if they’re covered for wild weather.
While 46 per cert feel confident in their insurance, clarity is key, the report said.
The survey comes as southeast Queensland has been warned to prepare for another round of severe storms this weekend.
It comes after four consecutive weekends of wild storms that delivered hail up to cricket ball size, strong winds and heavy rain in some parts.
Bureau of Meteorology’s Angus Hines saying activity could begin from Friday in the Darling Downs region.
“It’s not until Friday where we see a bit of a shift of fortunes for South East Queensland, with a return of showers and potentially stormy conditions,” he said.
“During the course of the weekend, thunderstorms seem distinctly possible both Saturday and Sunday.
“But it’s a little too early to put on the risk that we could see those severe storms like we have in multiple different bouts over the past.”
A lightning strike hitting the Brisbane River near the Story Bridge – Photo Supplied Higgins Storm Chasing – Samantha
Esk, in the Somerset region, is still recovering from the heavy thunderstorms on November 1 that injured several people, with some requiring hospital transport.
At the same time, hailstones up to 9cm in size were seen smashing into towns south of Toowoomba.
***Where to start? Here are some tips:
•Know your risk – Understand the weather threats in your area and your property’s weak spots. Visit the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Prepare Hub to check out your local weather risks.
•Make a plan – Create a clear emergency plan with important contact details, emergency kit essentials, shelter spots, evacuation routes, pet care, insurance details and emergency service resources.
•Prep on a budget – You don’t need to spend big. DIY fixes like drop bolts or plywood shutters, plus regular yard maintenance, can make a difference in being better prepared.
•Storm smarts – Never drive through floodwaters, ignore weather warnings or leave prep to the last minute. Don’t rely on your internet or power or assume the danger has passed.
•Build for the new normal – Routine maintenance and moderate safety upgrades like storm shutters or reinforcing garages can significantly increase your home’s readiness when weather strikes.
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