Mitti Insurance Blogs
Storm Watch
Helping clients stay resilient against Australia's deadliest storms
Severe weather events, particularly storms, are among the top causes of insurance claims in manufacturing, hospitality, and retail. Historical data shows that property damage from storms, flooding, and other natural disasters consistently ranks near the top for both claims volume and value.
For businesses in these sectors, downtime from weather-related damage directly impacts revenue, supply chains, and customer trust. Storms and related events such as hail, high winds, and flooding account for a significant portion of total insured losses annually in Australia.
Understanding Australia’s Storm Profile
Australia’s summer storms are no longer predictable seasonal events. Increasingly, they signal the urgent need for preparedness. Severe storms can include flash flooding, winds over 90 km/h, hail of 2 cm or more, and even tornadoes.
Common storm types include:
Thunderstorms and hailstorms fuelled by heat, humidity, and unstable air.
Southerly busters, sudden cold surges causing late-day storms.
Black nor’easters, moisture-rich north-easterly storms along the east coast.
East Coast Lows (ECLs), powerful maritime cyclones bringing heavy rainfall and coastal flooding.
Tropical cyclones, which, while rare in the south, can be highly destructive in northern Australia.
Storms in Australia are not just increasing in frequency but are also intensifying in their impact. This shift means timely preparation is more critical than ever.
Preventive Measures Brokers Can Recommend
Brokers can play an important role in helping clients reduce their exposure to storm-related losses. This is not simply about advising on cover but about enabling clients to take concrete steps before a large storm event begins.
Building and Site Maintenace
Roofing: Schedule regular inspections by a qualified roofer at least once a year, or twice in cyclone-prone regions. Look for loose or damaged tiles or sheeting, deteriorated seals, and rust.
Gutters and downpipes: Keep them clear of debris to prevent water from backing up into the roof cavity. Ensure downpipes direct water away from the building’s foundation.
Windows and doors: Inspect and replace worn or damaged seals. In high-risk areas, consider permanent storm shutters or security screens. Applying impact-resistant film can prevent glass from becoming dangerous projectiles.
Structural elements and signage: Secure all external signs and inspect cladding, awnings, or attachments for stability.
Landscaping and grounds: Regularly trim trees and remove weak branches. Secure outdoor furniture, signage, bins, and unused equipment to prevent them from becoming airborne hazards.
Drainage: Clear stormwater drains, pits, and culverts on the property to reduce the risk of flash flooding.
Pro tip: This Cyclone Preparation Checklist is a great tool to share with clients. It walks them through simple pre-storm tasks that reduce damage to their site and help them stay ready before cyclone and monsoon season hits.
Gamifying Storm Preparedness for Staff
Turning preparedness into a structured challenge can boost staff engagement and ensure procedures are second nature. Using the Mitti platform:
Manufacturing
Create a timed “Evacuation Route” checklist with QR code checkpoints. The app automatically records completion times and can rank results.
Hospitality
Develop scenario-based quizzes in the Learning module where staff choose the best response for guest safety during a simulated storm alert.
Retail
Set up a “Prep Sprint” checklist for securing stock, covering windows, and protecting displays, complete with time-stamped photo submissions.
IoT and Sensor-Based Monitoring
Deploying smart sensors allows for early detection and intervention before damage escalates.
Manufacturing
Install flood sensors in warehouse low points to trigger alerts for moving raw materials to safety.
Hospitality
Place temperature and humidity sensors in cold storage to prevent spoilage during power outages.
Retail
Use glass-break sensors on shopfronts to receive immediate alerts when hail or debris shatters windows.
Pro Tip: With Mitti's platform, businesses can easily set up weather alerts to monitor outdoor temperature, humidity, and wind conditions in real-time (no device required!)
Does your client need to close awnings and umbrellas on a windy day? Weather alerts can send notifications when high winds exceed a pre-set threshold. This means their team can take immediate action, securing the premise before the storm hits.
The Broker's Advantage
Brokers who go beyond policy discussions to provide practical, preventive advice position themselves as trusted partners in risk management. The ability to share industry-specific, actionable steps can help clients avoid losses, protect revenue, and recover faster after severe weather events.
With the right tools, such as Mitti’s inspections, training modules, and sensor technology, businesses can operationalise their storm preparation strategies and measure readiness over time. For brokers, these capabilities represent a clear value-add and a way to strengthen long-term client relationships.
Book a consultation
Book a 30-minute consult with our Risk Solutions team to have a risk-led discussion about how we can support your customers reach their business goals and best mitigate risk across their organisation.
Insurance products are issued by Mitti Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 54 662 653 303 AFSL 544306 (Mitti Insurance).
We do not provide any advice based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Policy terms, conditions, limits, exclusions, and underwriting criteria apply. Before making a decision, please read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement / Policy Wording and, for retail products, Target Market Determination. These documents are available from our website or upon request.