Moving During Brisbane’s Storm Season? Here’s How to Prepare
If you’ve lived in Brisbane long enough, you know storm season isn’t something to take lightly.
It usually kicks off in late spring and rolls right through summer. Think heavy rain, flash floods, hailstorms, and the occasional cyclone warning. Now imagine moving house in the middle of all that.
Here’s the thing: sometimes you don’t have a choice. Lease ending? Settlement date locked in? Life doesn’t always wait for clear skies.
But a stormy forecast doesn’t mean your move has to be chaos. With the right planning, you can still get from A to B with your furniture (and sanity) intact.
Let’s break down exactly how to prepare for a move during Brisbane’s storm season.
Check the Weather—But Don’t Rely on It
This might sound obvious, but a lot of people forget. Weather apps aren’t perfect. Storms here can pop up fast, even on days that started out clear.
In the lead-up to moving day, check the forecast daily. Use multiple sources like the Bureau of Meteorology website and apps like Weatherzone or WillyWeather. Watch for warnings about severe weather, not just rain.
On moving day itself, keep checking in. Conditions can change in minutes. Being aware gives you time to adjust.
BOM Weather Warnings are your best friend in summer. Bookmark that page.
Use a Local Moving Company That Knows Brisbane Storms
Not all removalists are created equal. Some treat wet weather like it’s just another day. The smart ones plan for it.
Working with a moving company Brisbane that understands local weather risks makes a difference. They’ll know how to handle delays, protect your belongings properly, and avoid flood-prone areas when choosing routes.
Plus, they’re more likely to have waterproof gear on hand. Tarps, padded covers, and sealed moving boxes aren’t optional during storm season—they’re essential.
Pack Like the Rain Is Guaranteed
Even if the forecast looks good, assume you’ll get rain. That way you’ll be ready either way.
Use plastic tubs for electronics, important documents, and anything that can’t get wet. You can find them at Bunnings or Kmart for cheap.
For everything else, reinforce cardboard boxes with extra tape. Seal the tops properly, not just folded flaps. Wrap fabric items in garbage bags inside the boxes for extra protection.
Label boxes clearly so they don’t need to be opened outdoors. The less time you spend figuring out where things go in the rain, the better.
If you’re booking a removal service Brisbane, check if they offer weatherproof packing materials. Some will provide them for an extra fee, and it’s usually worth it.
Plan for Flood Zones
Brisbane’s no stranger to flash flooding. Suburbs like Rocklea, Albion, and Newmarket can go underwater fast. Even parts of the CBD aren’t immune.
Before your move, check if your current or new home is in a flood-prone area. Use the Brisbane City Council Flood Awareness Map to find out.
Flood Awareness Map - Brisbane City Council
If either address is at risk, plan to move early in the day—before afternoon storms usually hit. And always have a backup date in mind, just in case.
Keep Safety First—Always
Storms aren’t just inconvenient. They can be dangerous. High winds, slippery surfaces, and lightning make moving risky.
Don’t lift heavy items on wet driveways. Don’t use metal trolleys or ladders during lightning storms. And never drive through floodwaters, even if it looks shallow. The Queensland Government’s road safety campaign isn’t joking when it says, “If it’s flooded, forget it.”
Consider rescheduling if a severe storm warning is issued. A house move isn’t worth risking your life over.
Protect Your Home—Both Old and New
Storm season is hard on properties. Before moving day, clear gutters and downpipes to avoid water backing up into the house.
Lay down towels or tarps at entrances to stop muddy footprints and protect floors.
At your new place, check for any existing leaks or roof issues before you move in. It’s easier to deal with before your furniture is in place.
Have an Emergency Kit Handy
It’s not just about boxes and tape. Pack an essentials kit for unexpected situations.
Include:
- A torch with fresh batteries
- Power banks for phones
- First aid kit
- Ponchos or raincoats
- Bottled water and snacks
- Dry towels
- Plastic bags for wet items
If the power goes out mid-move, you’ll be glad you planned ahead.
Communicate With Everyone Involved
Moving is a team effort, and good communication keeps things running smoothly—especially when the weather’s not on your side.
Stay in regular contact with your movers. Let neighbours know you’re moving so they’re not surprised if you’re blocking the driveway.
If you’re using storage, double-check access times and confirm they’re open during storms. Some facilities close early in severe weather.
Stay Flexible—And Keep Your Sense of Humour
Here’s the reality: moving during Brisbane’s storm season won’t always go perfectly. You might get wet. You might need to delay for safety. That’s life in Queensland.
But if you prepare properly, the process gets a lot less stressful.
Focus on what you can control: packing well, working with professionals, and keeping safety first. And if things go sideways? Laugh it off, grab a coffee, and wait for the sun to come back out. It usually does.
Daily Bulletin
