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Case Studies

You don't need to look far to find examples of extreme weather affecting communities around the world. We have taken a closer look at a couple of examples of recent extreme weather events to find out more about what happened and see if there is anything we can learn...

Victorian Bushfires

The Victorian bush fires are the most tragic event in the state’s history and Australia’s worst bushfire disaster. Fifteen separate infernos, driven by 100kh/km winds and 47.9C record temperatures, ripped through towns in rugged bushland, northeast of Melbourne.

Brisbane storms: The Gap

On November 16 2008, ferocious Brisbane storms destroyed much of a heavily populated north-west suburb –The Gap. Hail ripped through homes and cars, wind gusts of up to 130 kph smashed windows, ripped off roofs and branches, and uprooted trees.

Burma's Cyclone Nargis

Cyclone Nargis occurred of the bay of Bengal affecting Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh and most devastatingly, Myanmar (Burma). It struck in early may 2008, bringing with it winds of up to 165km/hr and devastation of thousands of homes as well as the destruction of the Burmese capital city Yangon.

Hurricane Katrina

In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck the southern coast of North America, causing ruinous damage across seven States, from central Florida to Texas, and devastatating New Orleans. The effects of Katrina were shattering and long lasting.

Canberra Bushfires

In 2003, the Canberra community was devastated by bushfires. Four people died, a total of 470 homes were destroyed, and 2000 businesses, homes and vehicles were damaged. The insurable loss and subsequent repair bill was more than $450 million.