How to Protect Your Water Supply in Cyclones, Heavy Rain & Power Outages
When a cyclone or severe storm is approaching, securing your home, family, and essential supplies is the top priority. As Cyclone Alfred nears Northern NSW, many households are bracing for strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding. But one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked in storm preparation is access to safe drinking water—especially if power outages or water contamination occur.
Your water tank can be a lifeline during extreme weather, but it needs to be properly prepared. Whether you’re dealing with Cyclone Alfred now or getting ready for future storm seasons, this guide will help ensure your water remains safe, clean, and accessible—no matter what the weather brings.
Why Safe Drinking Water is Essential During a Cyclone
During and after extreme weather events, mains water supplies can become compromised due to flooding, pipe damage, or contamination. If power outages occur, electric water pumps may stop working, leaving you without access to clean water. Your rainwater tank can be a critical backup for drinking, cooking, and hygiene, but only if it’s properly secured and maintained before the storm hits. Here’s how to ensure your water tank system stays functional in the face of extreme weather.
1. Secure Your Water Tank Before the Storm Hits
Anchor Your Tank & Protect Against High Winds
* Full tanks are more stable—if possible, ensure your tank is filled before the cyclone arrives.
* Check that your tank is properly secured and that pipe fittings, inlets, and outlets are reinforced to withstand high winds.
Prevent Contamination from Flooding & Storm Debris
* Seal all entry points (lids, inlets, and overflow pipes) to prevent floodwaters, debris, and dirt from contaminating your stored water.
* Clear gutters and leaf strainers to prevent blockages and overflow issues.
Elevate or Shield Your Tank if Located in a Flood Zone
* If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider raising your tank on a secure platform or building a protective barrier around it to reduce flood damage risk.
2. Have an Emergency Water Supply in Case of Power Outages
Many modern water tank systems rely on electric pumps to deliver water to your home. If a power outage occurs, you may lose access to your stored water unless you have a backup plan.
What You Can Do Before the Storm
✔️ Store emergency drinking water: Keep at least 20-30 litres per person in portable containers for immediate use.
✔️ Have a manual backup system: Install a gravity-fed tap or keep a manual pump as an alternative to electric pumps.
✔️ Consider a generator or battery-powered pump: If power outages are common in your area, having a backup power source for your water system can be a game-changer.
What to Do If You Lose Power
✔️ Boil or treat water before drinking if contamination is suspected.
✔️ Use stored water efficiently—prioritise drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene.
✔️ If you need to access water from your tank manually, use a clean bucket and rope or siphon system.
3. How to Keep Your Water Safe for Drinking
Heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding can introduce bacteria, dirt, and debris into your water supply. Even if your tank looks fine, contaminants may not be visible to the naked eye.
How to Keep Your Water Safe
✔️ Check for contamination—if your water is discoloured or has an unusual smell, do not drink it.
✔️ Use water purification tablets or household bleach (5-6 drops per litre) if boiling water isn’t an option.
✔️ Install a filtration system that includes first-flush diverters, UV filters, or carbon filters to remove bacteria and sediment.
Warning Signs That Your Water May Be Unsafe
Unusual taste or odour
Discolouration (brown, murky, or green water)
Recent flooding or damage to your roof or gutters
If in doubt, boil your water or use an alternative clean water source until you can confirm its safety.
4. After the Storm: Inspect & Maintain Your Tank
Once the cyclone or heavy rain event has passed, don’t assume your water is still safe. Take these steps to check for damage and contamination:
✔️ Inspect the tank for leaks, cracks, or dislodged pipes.
✔️ Flush out and clean gutters, strainers, and first-flush systems.
✔️ Check the water quality—if contamination is suspected, empty and disinfect the tank before refilling it.
✔️ If needed, get your water tested to ensure it’s safe for drinking.
Even if your tank is structurally sound, strong winds may have stirred up sediment inside, making the water cloudy or unsafe to drink. A quick flush or filter replacement can restore your water quality.
Why Preparing Your Water Tank Now Will Protect You in the Future
Extreme weather events—whether cyclones, bushfires, or droughts—are becoming more frequent in Australia. Taking a few proactive steps now can mean the difference between having access to safe water or facing a crisis during a storm. At The Water Tank Factory, we’ve helped thousands of Australians protect their water supply with high-quality, durable water tanks that stand up to extreme conditions. If you need advice on storm-proofing your water tank, upgrading to a more resilient system, or finding the right filtration solutions, we’re here to help.
Stay Safe & Be Prepared
If you’re currently in the path of Cyclone Alfred or another extreme weather event, act now to protect your water supply. Safe drinking water is one of your most valuable resources during a disaster, so take the necessary steps to secure your tank, prepare for power outages, and keep your water safe.
For expert advice on water tank safety and maintenance, visit The Water Tank Factory or call our team today on 1300 826 532
Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—your water tank can be your greatest asset in a storm. ️
Image credit: en.econostrum.info