Floods and storms
The nature of flooding can vary dramatically in terms of cause, timing and depth.
Hobart's location at the foot of kunanyi/Mt Wellington means we can be prone to flash flooding. This gives residents little time to prepare.
Stay up-to-date on current emergency warnings and information on the TasALERT website:
TasALERT
Important contacts
In a life threatening emergency, call Triple Zero - 000
SES community flood guides
Hobart CBD and surrounds
New Town and Lenah Valley
South Hobart
The TasALERT website provides a detailed guide of how to protect yourself before, during and after a flood:
TasALERT flood guide
Before a flood
- Understand the possible flood risk at your property. Council's flood mapping provides some guidance in working out if your property is likely to be impacted by flood water, however you should seek independent site specific advice - even if your property is outside the mapped hazard zones.
- Work out a safe route in case you need to evacuate.
- Keep your local emergency numbers handy.
- If required, purchase sand bags from your local hardware store. Sand is available from landscaping supply businesses.
During heavy rainfall
- Listen to your local radio station for warnings and advice.
- Make sure your neighbours are also aware and keep in touch in case they need your help.
- Move garbage containers, chemicals and poisons beyond the reach of water.
- Secure objects that might float away and cause damage.
- Move livestock and equipment to high ground.
- Stack your furniture and other possessions beyond the reach of water - place electrical goods on top of any piles.
- Check your motor vehicle and keep it full of fuel.
During a flood
- Avoid driving or walking through flood waters, don';t try to return home until you are sure it is safe.
- Don't drive on roads that have been closed.
- If you are at home, stay there until advised otherwise.
- Avoid using electrical or gas appliances.
- Don't eat or drink food that has been in contact with flood water.
- Wear shoes and gloves while cleaning up, use a strong disinfectant.
Seek assistance if cleaning up after a flood if the task is too big for you. Ask family, friends or neighbours to help, or contact the State Emergency Service (SES).
After a flood
- Check for damage to your house: if you need help, call the SES on 132 500.
- Continue to listen to the radio for information.
- Check on your neighbours.
- Stay well clear of creeks, drains, fallen trees, fallen power lines and damaged structures.
- Ensure children are supervised.
Information for food businesses affected by flooding
Emergencies may result in situations where it is harder to keep food safe. The most important thing is to keep foods at the right temperatures, and to ensure any food preparation is done hygienically.
Proprietors are advised to contact the City of Hobart's Environmental Health Officers on 03 6238 2711 with any questions concerning food safety and re-opening for trade.
- Once cold and frozen food is no longer cold to touch it can be kept and eaten for up to 4 hours only and then must be thrown away.
- If power is restored when frozen food is still frozen solid, then the food is likely to be considered safe.
- You must thoroughly clean and sanitise any kitchen surfaces affected by flood waters including floors, equipment and food contact surfaces.
- Any food products that have come into contact with flood waters may need to be thrown away. Please contact us to discuss specific items of concern.
- You must be able to wash your hands appropriately, in clean warm running water with soap and dried with disposable paper towels, before you prepare food for sale.
More information
Be prepared for flood brochure(PDF, 4MB)