One Year On: Understanding Weather-Related Anxiety After the Floods
Recovery isn't just physical. For many people, the emotional impacts of severe weather can last long after the rain has stopped.
It's hard to believe we're already in June 2026.
Nearly a year has passed since the first of the severe weather events that impacted so many people across our community. While we all hope these were truly once-in-a-generation events, recent weather forecasts have been a reminder of just how vulnerable we can feel. In recent weeks, we've watched heavy rain affect other parts of the country and followed the path of Cyclone Vaianu, both of which could easily have taken a different course.
For many people, those weather warnings can bring more than just practical concerns. They can also trigger feelings of worry, stress, and anxiety.
Recently, Seniors Wellbeing Coordinator Janine Leeden completed a four-hour online workshop called Weathering the Storm, facilitated by Blueprint for Learning. One of the key messages from the workshop was that recovering from a weather event isn't just about repairing roads, fences, homes, or land. Recovery also happens emotionally and mentally, and often takes much longer than we expect.
Recovery Takes Time
Many people are still navigating insurance claims, repairs, land remediation, and the countless tasks that follow a major weather event. Even for those who experienced relatively minor damage, recovery can feel like a long process.
For those who experienced more significant impacts, such as damage to homes, loss of buildings, fencing, stock, or productive land, the journey can be even longer.
One thing that stood out during the workshop was learning that community recovery often takes several years. While every person's experience is different, it is not uncommon for recovery to take up to four years, moving through various stages along the way. For some people, the impacts may remain part of their lives indefinitely.
If you've ever found yourself feeling unsettled when heavy rain is forecast, you're certainly not alone.
What Does Weather-Related Anxiety Look Like?
Weather-related anxiety can show up in many different ways. You might notice:
Feeling anxious or uneasy when heavy rain is forecast
Constantly checking weather apps, river levels, or forecasts
Difficulty sleeping during storms or severe weather warnings
Feeling overwhelmed by ongoing recovery tasks
Increased stress, irritability, or exhaustion
Feeling on edge whenever weather warnings are issued
Avoiding conversations or situations that remind you of the event
These reactions are understandable. They are often a response to real experiences and uncertainty, rather than simply worrying about something that might happen.
You're Not Alone
One of the most important messages from the workshop was that support is available, and recovery looks different for everyone.
Whether you've been directly affected by a weather event, are still working through recovery, or find yourself feeling anxious when bad weather is forecast, it's okay to acknowledge those feelings and seek support.
Many people in our community have experienced similar challenges over the past year. By talking openly about these experiences, we can help reduce the sense of isolation that often comes with them.
Community Flood Debrief - 10 June
As we approach the first anniversary of the weather events, there will also be an opportunity for our community to come together and reflect on the experiences of the past year.
A Community Flood Debrief will be held on 10 June. This is an opportunity to share experiences, discuss what worked well during the response and recovery process, identify areas for improvement, and contribute to future planning for our community.
Whether you were directly affected by the flooding, supported neighbours, volunteered during the response, or simply want to better understand our community's experience, your insights are valuable.
Community recovery isn't just about repairing damage. It's also about learning from what happened, strengthening connections, and ensuring we're better prepared for future challenges.
Free Counselling Support Available
If you have been affected by the flooding events and are finding the recovery process challenging, support is available.
Life Linc is currently offering seven free counselling sessions for people affected by the June and July flooding events.
Appointments are available face-to-face in Tapawera, Wakefield, and Motueka. Phone and online sessions are also available for those unable to attend in person.
No GP referral is required.
To access support, contact Life Linc on (03) 548 2400 or visit their website to complete a referral form.
Life Linc provides a safe and confidential space to talk through the challenges that can arise after a significant weather event, whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, uncertainty, grief, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the recovery process.
You don't need to be in crisis to seek support. Sometimes having someone to talk to can make a real difference.
Looking Ahead
As winter settles in, now is also a good time to review emergency plans, check emergency supplies, and reconnect with neighbours. Being prepared can help us feel more confident and connected, whatever the weather brings.
Most importantly, let's remember that recovery isn't just about rebuilding what was damaged. It's also about supporting one another, sharing our experiences, and recognising that healing takes time.
If the past year has taught us anything, it's that our community is strongest when we face challenges together.
