As Cyclone Alfred approaches, communities across the region are bracing for heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding. During extreme weather events like this, reliable access to clean water and functioning wastewater systems is crucial.
Water utilities in the region do an outstanding job preparing for and responding to these events, ensuring that drinking water supplies remain safe and wastewater systems continue to operate under challenging conditions. Their planning, infrastructure resilience, and emergency response efforts help minimise service disruptions.
However, as a homeowner, there are key steps you can take to protect your own water and wastewater systems—especially if you rely on a septic system, a rainwater tank for drinking water, or are connected to the town sewerage network.
For Homes with Septic Tanks
Heavy rain and flooding can overwhelm septic systems, leading to contamination risks and potential failure. Here’s how to protect your system:
Prevent surface water from entering your septic system – Ensure that stormwater runoff is directed away from your septic tank and drain field to prevent overloading. If your tank is not properly sealed, floodwater can enter and mix with sewage, creating a serious health risk.
Avoid using excessive water – Limit washing machine, dishwasher, and bathroom use during and after the storm to prevent overloading the system when the ground is already saturated.
Know how your system works – if your wastewater system is an advanced type and uses power, make sure you know what will happen in a power outage. Most have an emergency overflow trench.
Do not drive over or disturb the drain field – Saturated ground is fragile, and heavy vehicles or foot traffic can cause soil compaction and damage pipes.
Inspect for damage after the storm – If your area has flooded, check for signs of septic failure such as slow drains, sewage smells, or pooling water. If your system has been inundated, it may need to be pumped out and assessed by a professional before use. Avoid coming in contact with sewage.
For Homes with Rainwater Tanks (Drinking Water)
If you rely on rainwater for drinking water, it’s essential to take steps to protect your supply from contamination:
Check your roof, gutters, and downpipes – Before the cyclone, clear leaves, debris, and animal droppings from your roof catchment to reduce the risk of contamination.
Ensure your tank is sealed and secure – Strong winds and flooding can damage tank lids, seals, and inlets, allowing contaminated floodwater to enter. Check that all entry points are tightly sealed.
Protect buried or partially buried rainwater tanks from floodwater intrusion – If your tank is underground or partially buried, floodwater may seep in through cracks or damaged seals. If possible, create drainage paths to divert surface water away from the tank.
Know what to do if there is no power for your pump – if your rainwater system is pumped, have a plan in place for what you will do in a prolonged power outage.
Emergency water store – have some water stored hygienically in case of an issue with your rainwater tank.
Treat or test your water post-storm – If your tank has been exposed to floodwater, consider boiling water before drinking or using chlorine treatment to disinfect it. If in doubt, have your water tested before use.
For Homes in Sewered Areas
Even if you are connected to the town sewer network, it’s important to ensure your home plumbing can handle the extreme weather:
Ensure your Overflow Relief Gully (ORG) is clear – The ORG is a safety feature that allows sewage to escape outside rather than backing up into your home during an overload. Keep it free from blockages such as dirt, mulch, or heavy objects.
Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items – Wet wipes, sanitary products, and cooking fats can contribute to blockages in the sewer system, which may already be under pressure from stormwater infiltration.
Water to flush – if the water does go off it can be worthwhile having some stored water that can be poured into the toilet bowl or cistern to flush it.
Report any issues to your water utility – If you notice sewer overflows contact your local water provider as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
While cyclones bring significant challenges, water utilities and emergency response teams work tirelessly to keep services running. By taking simple precautions to protect your septic system, rainwater supply, and household plumbing, you can help reduce the risk of water contamination and plumbing issues in your home.
Stay safe, stay informed, and if you experience issues with your water or wastewater system, reach out to your local provider for advice and support.
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