Extreme weather events like cyclones (hurricanes in the U.S.) can be particularly destructive, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding. For backyard chicken keepers, preparation is key to ensuring your flock stays safe before, during, and after the storm. Here’s what you need to know to protect your chooks (or hens) when severe weather strikes.

Before the Storm Hits

1. Secure the Coop and Run

• Inspect your coop for any weak points—check the roof, walls, and doors for loose fittings or gaps that could allow strong winds to cause damage.
• Anchor lightweight or portable coops to the ground using stakes, sandbags, or heavy objects to prevent them from being lifted by the wind.
• Create a windbreak – If possible, place temporary wind barriers like plywood, hay bales, or tarps on the wind-facing side of the coop to reduce direct exposure to strong gusts. Make sure they’re well secured and won’t become a hazard themselves
• If your coop is in a low-lying area, consider temporarily relocating it to higher ground to avoid potential flooding.
• Remove any loose objects in the chicken run, such as feeders, waterers, and perches, that could become airborne in strong winds.
• Check drainage – Make sure water can flow away from the coop to avoid flooding
  

2. Create a Safe Space Inside

• If possible, allow your chickens to shelter inside a secure, enclosed space like a garage, barn, or shed during the worst of the storm.
• Provide ample bedding, such as hemp or wood shavings, to keep them comfortable and absorb moisture.
• Use pet carriers or large crates to house them temporarily if they need to be moved indoors.
• Backup Shelter Plan – If your property is in a high-risk area and evacuation becomes necessary, have a plan for where you can take your chickens (e.g., a friend’s property, an animal shelter, or a local community space).

3. Stock Up on Emergency Supplies

• Ensure you have at least a week’s worth of feed stored in waterproof, rodent-proof containers
• Store extra clean drinking water in case of contamination or water shortages
• Keep essential medications, supplements, and first aid supplies handy
• Have a battery-powered torch or lantern for checking on your flock if the power goes out

4. Plan for Power Outages

• If you use electric fencing or automatic doors, have a backup plan in case of power failure
• Consider alternative heat sources for chicks or sick birds that rely on artificial warmth

5. Emergency Contact List

• Have the contact details of local veterinarians, animal shelters, and emergency services handy in case you need assistance.

During the Storm

1. Keep Your Chickens Sheltered

• Move your chickens into their designated safe area well before the storm hits
• Ensure their space is well-ventilated but protected from strong winds and rain
• Keep their environment as calm as possible—covering cages or enclosures with blankets can help reduce stress

2. Monitor Weather Updates

• Stay informed about the storm’s progress via the National Weather Service (U.S.) or Bureau of Meteorology (Australia), as well as local emergency services.
• Be ready to adjust plans if evacuation becomes necessary

3. Secure Coop Doors and Windows

• High winds can cause doors and windows to blow open, so use locks or latches to prevent this

4. Monitor for Panic

• Chickens can become stressed and disoriented during a storm. If they appear overly panicked, try to keep them in a dark, enclosed space to help them feel safer

After the Storm Passes

1. Check for Dangers

• Inspect the coop and run for damage before letting your chickens out
• Look for sharp debris, broken branches, or anything that could cause injury
• Be cautious of floodwaters, which can contain harmful bacteria and chemicals

2. Ensure Clean Water and Feed

• Check water sources for contamination—if in doubt, provide fresh, clean water
• If feed has become wet or spoiled, dispose of it and provide fresh supplies

3. Assess Your Flock’s Health

• Watch for signs of stress, illness, or injury, such as lethargy, drooping wings, or difficulty breathing
• Provide extra vitamins and probiotics to help them recover from the stress of the storm
• Respiratory Issues – High humidity, wet bedding, or mold from water damage can lead to respiratory infections. Keep an eye out for symptoms like sneezing, coughing, or laboured breathing

4. Rebuild and Reinforce

• Repair any coop damage and reinforce weak points to better withstand future storms.
• Consider raising the coop or improving drainage if flooding was an issue.
  

5. Look for Predators

• Storms can displace wildlife, potentially bringing predators like foxes, raccoons (U.S.), or dingoes (Australia) closer to your coop. Reinforce any weak points in fencing or enclosures.

6. Disinfect the Coop

• If floodwaters entered the coop, thoroughly clean and disinfect it before returning your chickens.Monitor for

Looking After Your Flock During a Cyclone or Hurricane is a scary task. Severe storms are unpredictable, but with good preparation, you can keep your backyard chickens safe during extreme weather events. Securing their coop, planning ahead with emergency supplies, and monitoring their health afterward will help ensure your flock weathers the storm as safely as possible.