If you’ve been following the news, you’ve likely heard about the massive bomb cyclone hitting Australia’s east coast right now. 

This isn’t just another rainy day; it’s a serious weather system that’s already causing havoc and preparation is key. 

Let’s dive into what’s happening, how it affects us and what you can do to stay prepared.

What is a Bomb Cyclone, Anyway?

A bomb cyclone is a low-pressure system that intensifies rapidly, a process meteorologists call ‘bombogenesis.’ This happens when the atmospheric pressure drops significantly in just 24 hours. 

For the east coast of Australia, this particular bomb cyclone formed in the Tasman Sea and is now battering New South Wales (NSW), including Sydney, with heavy rain, gale-force winds and massive waves. 

This storm is no ordinary weather event. It’s being called the first east coast low (ECL) in three years and it’s bringing some serious challenges, especially to coastal communities.

What’s Happening on the Ground?

This bomb cyclone is hitting hard and its effects are being felt across NSW, southeast Queensland and eastern Victoria. 

Here’s what’s going on:

1. Heavy Rainfall and Flooding: The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is forecasting up to 250 mm of rain in some areas with Sydney, the Illawarra and the South Coast expected to cop 50 to 120 mm in just a few hours.
   
   That’s more than double the average July rainfall for Sydney! Flood warnings are in place for 20 river catchments, from Wallis Lake near Forster to the Mitchell River in Victoria. Flash flooding is a real risk, particularly in already saturated areas like the Mid North Coast.
   
   
2. Damaging Winds: Gusts of up to 125 km/h are slamming the coast, strong enough to topple trees, bring down powerlines and cause property damage.
   
   Certain areas, such as Bondi, Wollongong and the Hunter, are at risk of destructive winds exceeding 125 km/h with some spots already reporting trees and powerlines down.
   
   
3. Hazardous Surf and Coastal Erosion: Waves are reaching 5 to 7 metres. This is causing significant beach erosion, putting homes in coastal areas at risk.
   
   
4. Power Outages and Disruptions: Over 30,000 homes and businesses in the Central Coast, Newcastle and Sydney are without power.
   
   Transport is also taking a hit with dozens of flights cancelled, train lines shut down and road closures due to flooding.
   
   
5. Evacuations: Coastal erosion has prompted evacuation orders for residents in NSW where homes are at risk of structural damage from massive waves.

Don’t hesitate to contact NSW State Emergency Service (SES) and evacuate when needed to stay safe. Once the bomb cyclone passes and you’re planning to make a claim, you can reach out to us at Tank Insurance for assistance and support. 

How to Prepare for the Bomb Cyclone

Preparation can make all the difference. 

Here are practical steps you can take right now:

1. Stay Informed:
   
   • Check the BOM website (bom.gov.au) or the Hazards Near Me app for real-time weather updates and warnings.
   • Tune into your local for emergency updates.
   • Follow NSW SES on social media for alerts.
     
2. Secure Your Property:
   
   • Tie down loose items such as outdoor furniture, trampolines or bins to prevent them from becoming projectiles in high winds.
   • Clear gutters and drains to reduce flooding risks.
   • If you live near the coast, consider sandbagging to protect against storm surges.
     
3. Keep Your Emergency Kit Ready:
   
   • Pack essentials including water, non-perishable food, a torch, batteries, a first-aid kit and important documents.
   • Include contact info, emergency numbers and a plan for evacuation routes.
     
     
4. Avoid Risks:
   
   • Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel or evacuate when requires+, especially in areas under severe weather warnings.
   • Never drive through floodwaters. Flooded roads can cause numerous incidents.
   • Keep away from beaches as massive waves pose a danger to rock fishers and surfers.
     
     
5. Check Your Insurance:
   
   • Review your Home and Contents Insurance or Business Insurance policies to ensure you’re covered for storm damage, flooding and coastal erosion.
   • Take photos of your property and valuables now to make claims easier later.
   • Contact your insurance broker to clarify what your policy covers and whether you need additional coverage for specific risks like flooding.

Staying Safe & Looking Ahead

Extreme weather events, like this bomb cyclone, can turn lives upside down. The 2016 ECL caused devastating erosion in Collaroy, with homes literally falling into the sea. This bomb cyclone could lead to similar challenges, especially with flooding and wind damage.

That’s why it’s important to stay prepared and insured. 

For businesses, this storm could mean disrupted operations, damaged stock or even temporary closure. The right coverage can help cover lost income or protect your premises and equipment. 

For homeowners, getting suitable insurance means having the coverage for damaged belongings or structural repairs. 

After this peril, you can get in touch with our team at Tank Insurance for more information or to discuss your insurance options. 

Remember: if you’re in an affected area, keep an eye on those BOM warnings and stay indoors (or evacuate) where possible.

Stay safe and let’s weather this storm together.