Recovery and support

Flooding and severe weather can have lasting impacts on individuals, families and communities. Recovery takes time — and support is available. 

This page provides information to help you stay safe, clean up, protect your health and access recovery support after a flood or severe weather event. 

For information on repairs, approvals and rebuilding, visit: 

Council's advice for rebuilding after a natural disaster

Queensland Government advice for rebuilding after a natural disaster

Recovery activities and plans

North and Far North Tropical Low***

29 January – 28 February 2025** 

Following flooding associated with the North and Far North Tropical Low, Hinchinbrook Shire Council developed a Local Recovery Action Plan to support community recovery. 

The Recovery Plan: 

  • outlines locally led recovery actions 

  • identifies priorities, projects and timeframes 

  • supports long‑term resilience and sustainability 

  • aligns with Council’s Corporate Plan and Queensland recovery frameworks 

Local Recovery Action Plan 

 

What to do after a flood

After a flood event, it’s important to put safety first. 

Key reminders: 

  • Stay informed by tuning into local radio and following official advice 

  • Only return home when authorities confirm it is safe 

  • Avoid floodwaters — If it’s flooded, forget it 

  • Beware of damaged powerlines, structures and trees 

  • Do not use wet electrical appliances 

  • Wear protective clothing and footwear 

  • Treat flood‑affected items as contaminated 

  • Discard food exposed to floodwater unless sealed in airtight containers 

 

Health and safety during recovery

Flooding and severe weather can create ongoing public health risks during clean‑up and recovery, particularly due to contaminated water, debris and damaged infrastructure. 

Queensland Health advises residents to take extra care after disaster events. 

Health risks may include: 

  • Injuries from debris, unstable buildings or damaged structures 

  • Infections from contact with contaminated water, mud or waste 

  • Carbon monoxide poisoning from petrol‑powered generators and pumps 

  • Snake, spider and insect bites 

  • Mosquito‑borne diseases 

  • Illness from unsafe food or drinking water 

Taking simple precautions during clean‑up can help reduce the risk of injury and illness. 

 

Cleaning up safely after a flood

Thorough cleaning and drying helps protect your health. 

Key advice: 

  • Wash and disinfect flood‑affected surfaces 

  • Boil drinking water or use bottled water until advised otherwise 

  • Discard contaminated food and medications 

  • Clean and cover all cuts promptly 

  • Shower after clean‑up activities 

Dealing with mould

Drying out a flood‑affected home can take time. 

To reduce mould: 

  • Increase airflow and ventilation 

  • Dry contents outdoors where practical 

  • Use appropriate cleaning products 

  • Remove mould only after full drying 

  • Seek advice if respiratory conditions exist 

Download the Queensland Health – Dealing with mould after a flood or cyclone

Melioidosis awareness  

Melioidosis is a disease caused by bacteria found in soil and muddy water. It is more common in north Queensland, particularly after flooding and heavy rainfall.  Visit Queensland Health for more information. 

Tetanus awareness  

Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection caused by bacteria found in soil, dust and animal waste. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts, scratches or puncture wounds, which are more common during flood clean‑up and recovery activities. 

The risk of tetanus increases after floods due to exposure to contaminated water, mud and debris, particularly when wounds are not promptly cleaned or protected. Visit Queensland Health for information. 

Electrical safety

Flood‑affected electrical systems can be dangerous. 

  • Do not reconnect power until inspected by a licensed electrician 

  • Unplug and have appliances checked before use 

  • Avoid electrical equipment while standing in water 

  • Seek professional advice if wiring or switchboards were submerged 

Visit Electrical Safety Queensland here for further advice.

 

     

 

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