Cyclone Alfred: Solar Panel & Powerline Safety Guide

🚨 Stay Safe, Stay Prepared! 🚨
Tropical Cyclone Alfred is on track to hit Queensland’s southeast coast as a Category 2 system, bringing destructive winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding. With wind speeds reaching up to 130 km/h, it’s essential to secure your property and prioritise electrical safety—especially if you have solar panels or live near powerlines.

⚡ Solar Panel Safety During Cyclones

Modern solar panels are built to withstand up to 200 km/h winds, but flying debris, hail, and flooding can cause serious damage. Here’s what you need to do before, during, and after the storm.
🔍 Pre-Cyclone Preparation
✅ Trim nearby trees to minimise debris impact.
✅ Secure loose outdoor items like furniture, garden tools, or decorations.
✅ Check panel fastenings—ensure they are secure and up to code.
✅ Elevate your inverter and battery system to avoid flood damage.
🌪️ During the Cyclone
⚠️ Do not go outside to check your panels. Stay indoors and wait for the cyclone to pass.
⚠️ If your system is grid-connected and you experience a power outage, turn off your solar inverter as a safety precaution.
🔧 Post-Cyclone Checklist
📸 Take photos of any damage for insurance purposes.
🛑 Avoid touching damaged panels or wiring—there’s a risk of electrocution.
📞 Contact your solar installer for a professional inspection and report.
⚠️ Look for hazards: Cracked panels, burn marks, or exposed wiring could be dangerous.

⚠️ Powerline Safety Protocols

Fallen powerlines can be deadly due to step potential (electricity spreading through the ground). Follow these life-saving rules:
🚨 If You See a Fallen Powerline
🚫 Stay at least 10 metres away—electricity can travel through wet ground.
🚫 Do not touch the line or anything in contact with it.
📞 Report immediately:
Lockyer Valley Council: Call 1300 005 872
Powerlines: Contact Energex (13 19 62) or Essential Energy (132 080).
🚗 What If a Powerline Falls on Your Car?
1️⃣ Stay inside and call 000.
2️⃣ Do NOT exit unless your car catches fire.
3️⃣ If escaping, jump clear with both feet together and shuffle away without lifting your feet.

🏠 Cyclone Preparedness Checklist

✅ Board up windows and clear gutters.
✅ Use sandbags (available at SES depots) to prevent water damage.
✅ Monitor emergency alerts from:
Energex Outage Alerts
Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) Updates
✅ Plan evacuations in advance—especially for island residents (e.g. North Stradbroke).
🔊 Final Reminder: Your safety comes first—stay indoors during the storm and avoid checking for damage until authorities say it’s safe!
⚡ Powermate—Your trusted partner in solar & electrical safety across Queensland. 🌞🔋⚡
📍 Need assistance with your solar system or electrical repairs post-cyclone? Contact us at Powermate for expert support.