On (And Off) The Road Camping during storm season – Top 10 Tips

 If you’re planning a camping adventure, you’ll understand summer in Australia means storm season. With our wet weather lasting about six months between November and March, temperatures average 30 degrees Celsius in summer – often hitting 40 degrees. The high temperatures cause high humidity and large amounts of water, resulting in flooding. Here’s how you can prepare for storm season and have a fun-filled camping trip.

Camping during storm season – what’s the outlook for 2021/22?

The Bureau of Meteorology’s (BOM) Severe Weather Outlook has forecast a slightly above average cyclone season and an increased risk of widespread flooding over the east and north of Australia. According to the Australian Tropical Cyclone Outlook for 2021 to 2022, Australia has a 65 per cent chance of having more cyclones than average. The Severe Weather Outlook is released by BOM annually in early October and outlines the risk of thunderstorms, bushfires and heatwaves through to the end of April when the severe weather season ends. The lingering characteristics of the La Nina weather pattern — warm waters in the north, the sea surface temperature pattern across the tropical Pacific Ocean, along with a negative Indian Ocean Dipole — contribute to the threat of increased rain, floods and slightly above average cyclone activity.

Camping during storm season – how should I prepare?

1. Pack an emergency kit

All householders need to know where your Emergency Kit is kept. Your pack should contain the following:

• non-perishable food items
• water
• medical and sanitation products
• Torch with extra batteries
• Battery powered radio with extra batteries
• Waterproof jackets and closed shoes or boots for everyone
• Tools and supplies – whistle, utility knife, duct tape, garbage bags, safety glasses, sunglasses, waterproof bags (to protect belongings)
• Miscellaneous – nappies and formula for babies; pet food and other animal needs; medication; spare house and car keys
• If you are travelling with a diabetic, be familiar with the Diabetes emergency plan. To get your free copy of My Diabetes Plan for natural disasters and emergencies, call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 or visit the NDSS website.

2. Plan ahead

Preparing an Emergency Plan is an important step to prepare for, survive and cope with emergencies. All members of your group need to know where the Emergency Plan is kept.

3. Wind in your camper awning before bad weather strikes

Depending on your type of awning, its capacity to withstand the windy weather and wind pressure might differ. We recommend winding your awning in as a precaution.

4. Secure pets
   Thunderstorm phobia or anxiety is a problem for many dogs. Provide a comfortable hiding place in your campervan. If you have room, a crate with a soft bed inside and covered with a heavy blanket will make your fur pal feel safer.

5. Secure items
   Secure items that could blow around in strong winds. E.g., camp chairs, eskies and camping mats.

6. Avoid parking under large trees

Avoid parking under large trees, bushes or near large objects as you could be at increased risk of being struck by lightning.

7. Park on lower ground

Acquaint yourself with the terrain. Seek lower ground when possible and avoid wide-open and exposed peaks and ridges.

8. Invest in a backup emergency generator

A backup generator will keep essential items running when the power goes out. Check out the range of Westinghouse generators here.

9. Invest in waterproof bags
   Dry bags and sacks offer great storage and are designed with a watertight seal to protect your belongings from water damage (refer to emergency kit).

10.  Stay inside and shelter

When a severe storm strikes, stay inside and shelter away from windows, doors and skylights. Keep checking the BOM website or app and listen to your local radio station for storm warnings and updates.

Our Safety Guides for Off Road Caravanning

Your safety is the most important thing, so here’s some insights that will help you get on the road quickly, and safely!

• The Complete Guide for Caravan Newbies
• Caravan Tyre Pressure
• Towing Terminology Explanations
• Step by Step Videos
• Know your JAWA Model
• Newbie Towing Mistakes to Avoid
• Camper and Caravan Maintenence
• Getting a Caravan Roadworthy
• Off Road Risks

Camping in Queensland? Think JAWA

Are you planning a camping adventure? Do it in style in a JAWA. If you need new parts or accessories for your next trip, get in touch with our team at JAWA Off Road Campers by calling 07 5479 6844. You can also check out our range in our Caboolture showroom and have a chat with us in person. We’d love to hear about your adventures. You can also share your stories on our Facebook page.