Ex-Cyclone Alfred has left flooding in its wake

We reviewed the evidence

We recently reviewed research on the physical and mental health impacts of floods across mainland Australia. We included 69 studies in our review, published over 70 years. The majority were from the past ten years, examining the effects of floods in Queensland and NSW.

Mental health consequences too

Our review showed floods also affect mental health. The more you’re exposed to floodwaters in your home or business, the worse the mental health impacts are likely to be.

The impacts are inequitable

Flooding exposes and worsens existing inequalities. Socially vulnerable groups are more likely to be exposed to flooding in their homes and have less access to resources to respond and recover from these events, putting some groups at higher risk of negative health impacts afterwards.

We must learn more

While the health effects after flooding are diverse, the research to date is not comprehensive. We need to learn more about how floods contribute to or exacerbate existing chronic illnesses, disability and long-term mental health issues.

Conclusion

Flooding can have devastating impacts on individuals, communities, and the environment. As we continue to face the consequences of climate change, it is crucial that we understand the short- and long-term effects of flood events on our health. By doing so, we can better support those affected and work towards a more equitable and sustainable future.

Frequently Asked Questions

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