If you have to evacuate
Learn where to go, what to take, and how to stay safe and take care of your pets.
Be aware of changing conditions
Flash flooding can happen anywhere during heavy rainfall. Make sure you follow the instructions of emergency services.
The Hazards Near Me app provides local emergency warnings and and advice.
If your area is on alert for severe weather or floods, prepare to evacuate ahead of time in case you need to leave at short notice. Don't wait until an evacuation order is announced to prepare to leave.
Leave the area immediately if it's safe to do so. Conditions can change quickly. Roads can be closed or cut off by floodwaters unexpectedly.
Check road conditions
Check road conditions before you travel at Live Traffic or via the app on iOS or Android.
Do not drive, walk or ride through floodwaters. They can be deeper and faster moving than they appear.
Check your emergency kit
Add any last-minute items to your emergency kit like:
- important documents
- medicines or prescriptions
- special requirements for children, people with disability, who are unwell or elderly people
- appropriate clothing and footwear
- fresh food and drinking water
- valuables.
Know where you're going
If possible:
- stay with family or friends
- rent short-term accommodation in a safe location.
You can also go to an evacuation centre. This is a temporary safe place where you can get immediate disaster assistance. Find open evacuation centres on the SES website.
Before leaving your home
Turn off power, gas and water and lock up securely.
If you have animals
If possible, take your pets with you when you evacuate. This includes if you are going to an evacuation centre.
Pack essential items for your pet for 3 to 7 days, including:
- food and treats
- toys and bedding
- medicine
- identification tags
- registration and vaccination papers.
You may need to make other plans for larger animals and livestock. However, relocating them can take time, so these plans should be put in action early, before an evacuation order is made.
Find information on how to care for pets, larger animals and livestock on the SES website.
How you'll know when it’s safe to return home
The SES will issue an 'all clear' when it’s safe to return to an area after an evacuation. Visit the SES to monitor for an 'all clear' notice.
It’s important to take safety precautions:
- when returning to your property after a flood
- before starting clean-up and repairs.
Find out more about how to stay safe after a flood.