Flood Myths Debunked

The facts that could save your life

Floods are Australia's most frequent and costly natural disaster, yet misinformation still spreads faster than the water itself. From false assumptions about safety to last-minute panic packing, these myths can lead to dangerous decisions.

Let’s set the record straight and help every household prepare — no matter where you live.

Myth 1: "It’s just a bit of water — my car can make it"

Reality: Just 15 centimetres of fast-moving water can knock a person off their feet. Just 30 centimetres is enough to float or sweep away most cars, including four-wheel drives.

Many flood-related deaths are avoidable and occur when people try to drive or walk through water. Never assume it is safe to cross, even if the road looks shallow.

Simple rule: If it’s flooded, forget it.

Myth 2: "I’m safe because I don’t live near a river"

Reality: Flooding is not limited to riverbanks. Flash floods, stormwater overflow, blocked drains, coastal surges and runoff from hills can impact suburban streets, rural areas, and even high ground. Thousands of properties across Australia are at risk, regardless of how close they are to a river.

You can check your flood risk using state-based tools:

• New South Wales: SES Flood Risk & Maps

• Victoria: Floodplain Mapping Victoria

• Queensland: Flood Check QLD

• Western Australia: WA Floodplain Mapping

• South Australia: Flood Information SA

• Tasmania: SES Tasmania Flood Risk

• Northern Territory: NT PFES Flood Safety

• Australian Capital Territory: Flood Risk in Canberra

  
  

Do not wait until the rain starts to find out if your home is in a danger zone.

Myth 3: "I’ll pack when it happens"

Reality: Floods can move fast, and evacuation orders may give you only minutes. Power or phone reception may also be cut. If you have to leave suddenly, a pre-packed emergency kit can make all the difference — and may even save lives.

Basic items to include:

• Water (minimum 3 litres per person per day)

• Non-perishable food

• First aid kit

• Medications and prescriptions

• Torch and spare batteries

• Radio (battery-powered or wind-up)

• Phone charger or power bank

• Identification and important documents

• Pet food, leash, carrier and medications

Download our Emergency Checklist HERE

and keep it printed in an easy-to-reach place

Myth 4: "I’ll get a warning in time"

Reality:Mobile towers can fail, sirens are not always used, and alerts may be delayed. Do not rely on a single source of warning. The best approach is to monitor multiple official channels and have a plan ready in advance.

Stay informed through:

• The Bureau of Meteorology: www.bom.gov.au

• ABC Emergency updates: www.abc.net.au/emergency

• Your State Emergency Services (SES) website

• Community Facebook pages for local updates

If you live in a high-risk area, consider installing a battery-powered radio in your kit so you can stay informed even during blackouts.

Myth 5: "It won’t happen to me"

Reality: Floods are the most common natural disaster in Australia. They cause more damage and economic loss than bushfires or cyclones - and with changing weather patterns, they are becoming more frequent and severe. In 2022, the Insurance Council of Australia recorded over $5.65 billion in flood-related claims - the highest figure ever.

From Lismore and Brisbane to Launceston, Echuca, Katherine and Perth, floods have impacted every state and territory.

What You Can Do Today

Take action before the next flood warning is issued:

• Download and print your emergency kit and pet checklist

• Check your address on your state’s flood risk map

• Set up alerts through BOM and ABC Emergency

• Create an evacuation plan that includes pets

• Share this information with your neighbours, family and friends

  
  

Final Note

Flood myths can be deadly. The truth can keep you and your loved ones safe. Preparation takes minutes. Recovery can take years. Make the choice now to get ready.