Flood risk: Australian summers are known for natural disasters
With the Australian summer comes the threat of cyclones, floods and fires. And extreme weather events like these can significantly impact small business owners, even bringing their operations to a sudden halt.
Over the years, you would have noticed that many of our worst natural disasters occur during summer. Unfortunately, this upcoming summer is looking particularly troublesome due to a combination of conditions in the tropical Pacific and Indian oceans.
It was not too long ago that we were battling the Black Summer of 2019/20, but it's thought that fire won't be the main threat this year. Instead, the Bureau of Meteorology has warned there's a 70% chance of a La Nina event happening. And this potentially means flooding over summer - lots of it.
Weather experts have leveraged sophisticated technologies and found there's a higher chance of above-average rainfall across many Australian states this coming summer. As a result, the weather outlook points to a 65% chance of more cyclones than average. In a regular season, we see nine to eleven cyclones, with just four making landfall.
The Australian and New Zealand National Council for Fire and Emergency Services has warned of higher than usual fire potential across large parts of New South Wales and Queensland.
While most of Australia should have 'normal' conditions, AFAC always emphasises that devastating bushfires can still happen even in regular bushfire seasons.
As we prepare for the summer ahead, it's more important than ever before to protect your property and assets against the risks.
If weather events cause destruction or disruption, suitable insurance will help get your business back up and running. Having suitable insurance means making sure your level of cover is correct and that you aren't underinsured. It also involves considering whether you need flood cover, which may not be included in your policy.
If damage is caused by poor maintenance, your insurance claim may not payout. Therefore, it is essential to have cover and continue to maintain and manage your policy to reduce your risks.
By getting organised now, you can head into what's anticipated to be a particularly destructive Australian summer, knowing you've done all you can to prepare.
How Coverforce can help
The Asia Pacific region is one of the most disaster-prone on the planet. Don't wait until it's too late to protect your business assets.
For more information, tailored risk management advice or to arrange cover, please contact our expert team of brokers at your local Coverforce office.
The information provided in this article is of a general nature only and has been prepared without taking into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. If you require advice that is tailored to your specific business or individual circumstances, please contact Coverforce directly.
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