Look, we know you didn’t come here expecting a weather report, but with Cyclone Alfred bearing down, it’s time to talk about getting your rig cyclone-ready.
Whether you’re battening down the hatches at home or gearing up to help with recovery, your 4x4 needs to be prepped for extreme conditions. High winds, flooding, blackouts, and road closures aren’t just minor inconveniences when you’re off the beaten track—they can leave you stranded, stuck, or worse, unprepared.
Here’s how to make sure your 4x4 is built to survive the storm and ready to roll when the skies clear.
1. Fuel Up Before It’s Too Late
If you’re bugging out or staying put, you’ll want a full tank—because when a cyclone’s coming, fuel stations run dry fast.
Fill up your main tank and any long-range fuel tanks.
If you carry jerry cans, make sure they’re full and securely stored.
And remember, don’t wait until the wind picks up. Once roads start closing and panic sets in, you’ll be fighting every man and his dog for a pump.
2. Get Your 4x4 Off the Firing Line from Cyclone Alfred
A flying branch, fence panel, or entire trampoline doesn’t pair well with your windscreen.
Move your 4x4 under cover if possible.
If no cover, park away from trees, powerlines, and loose debris.
Consider angling the nose into the wind—it reduces the risk of your vehicle being battered from the side.
For those with a caravan or camper trailer, secure it properly:
Park narrow end facing the wind for less resistance.
Use wheel chocks and stabilisers.
Consider tie-down straps over the top.
4. Prep for Flooding & Blackouts
If Alfred turns on the taps, floodwaters will follow—meaning road closures, blackouts, and zero phone service.
Flood Prep:
If you’re in a low-lying area, park your 4x4 on high ground.
Know which roads flood first and have alternate routes mapped out.
Snorkel fitted? Good. If not, avoid deep crossings.
Blackout Prep:
Fully charge your phone, UHF radio, and power banks.
Have torches, batteries, and a backup power supply.
Stock up on non-perishable food and water—you don’t want to be that guy relying on UberEats mid-cyclone.
5. Sandbags? Nah. Recovery Gear? Yes.
Sure, sandbags help stop minor flooding—but if you're hitting the tracks post-cyclone, you’ll need:
Recovery boards (MaxTrax, Treds)
Snatch strap & rated shackles
Winch (if you’ve got one, check it's working!)
Tyre deflator & compressor (because muddy tracks = lower PSI)
Waterlogged tracks can swallow a 4x4 whole. Prep now, so you’re not that guy needing a tow out from the SES.
6. Know How to Cut Off Utilities & Avoid Risky Spots
A cyclone isn’t just a bit of wind and rain, it brings downed powerlines, contaminated water, and burst pipes.
Know how to shut off your gas, water, and power if needed.
Avoid driving through floodwaters (seriously, don’t be that hero on the news).
If helping with storm recovery, wear proper PPE—because tetanus is not a vibe.
7. After the Storm: Help Out or Get Out
When Cyclone Alfred clears, the real work begins.
If roads are clear, help your neighbors, clear debris, and check on mates.
If tracks are still a mess, wait it out—don't be the guy ruining trails and getting bogged in cyclone leftovers.
SES, Emergency Services, and local councils always need extra hands after a storm—if you’ve got a 4x4, you might be able to help with clean-up and supply runs.
Final Thoughts: Be Smart, Be Safe, Be Ready
Cyclone Alfred might not be the apocalypse, but if you’re not prepared, things can go sideways—fast. Use this time to prep your 4x4, your home, and your family. Whether it’s fueling up, securing your gear, or making sure your recovery setup is dialed in, a little effort now can save a whole lot of stress later.
Stay safe folks.
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