Australian insurance professionals are closely following the progress of Cyclone Kalmaegi, which has brought severe weather conditions to parts of the Philippines, Vietnam, and Laos.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has issued alerts regarding heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the risk of flash flooding and landslides. These conditions have led to significant interruptions in transportation and flight operations throughout the region. As of the morning of Nov. 6, Cyclone Kalmaegi had caused widespread flooding and infrastructure damage in the central Philippines.
According to The Guardian, authorities have reported at least 66 fatalities and 26 missing persons, with emergency services continuing rescue and recovery efforts.
The cyclone is expected to continue its path toward Vietnam and Laos, with further adverse weather anticipated.
Comparetravelinsurance.com.au advises Australians who are travelling in or planning to visit affected areas to monitor local updates and comply with any instructions from emergency services, including evacuation orders.
In important information that brokers can pass on to insureds, for those who secured travel insurance policies before or on Nov. 4, there may be coverage available for disruptions such as cancellations, delays, or additional accommodation expenses, depending on the terms of their policy. However, policies purchased after this date are unlikely to cover cyclone-related claims, as the event would be considered known at the time of purchase.
Additionally, many policies include a 72-hour waiting period, which can affect eligibility for certain claims immediately after buying coverage.
Natalie Ball, director of Comparetravelinsurance.com.au, commented on the importance of purchasing insurance early. “Natural disasters can strike without warning. While it’s always important to take out travel insurance, buying it as soon as you’ve booked your trip gives you the best chance of being protected when the unexpected happens. Additionally, your travel insurer can help you out in a crisis by providing guidance and emergency assistance if your trip is disrupted,” she said.
Airlines and travel providers are responding to the situation by offering flexible options for affected passengers.
For example, Cathay Pacific is allowing passengers travelling to or from Cebu between Nov. 4 and 5 to rebook or reroute their flights without additional fees, provided travel is completed by Dec. 15.
Other airlines may implement similar measures, and travellers are encouraged to contact their airline or travel provider for information on rebooking or refund options before submitting insurance claims.
Insurance professionals are recommending that travellers:
The cyclone alert comes as new research reveals that a significant portion of Australians travel overseas without insurance.
A survey conducted by Quantum Market Research for the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and DFAT’s Smartraveller program found that 14% of respondents did not have insurance on their most recent international trip. Among travellers under 30, the figure rose to 23%. Of those who travelled uninsured, 65% had considered purchasing insurance but ultimately decided against it.
The most frequently cited reason, mentioned by 31%, was the perception that their destination was safe enough to travel without coverage.
Andrew Hall, CEO of the ICA, commented: “Understanding your policy and assessing what kinds of activities you plan on undertaking while you’re travelling is the best way to make sure you’re protected.” He advised travellers to review policy exclusions and consider additional coverage for specific activities. “Check Product Disclosure Statements and speak directly to insurers with any questions,” Hall said.
