Makes me realise how easy we have it here with our climate never having to worry about the drinking water freezing up.
If I read your comments right you don't use rain off your roof for drinking water?, just wondering why not. I guess you don't get any water run off the roof in the winter but summer rain would add to the supply.
Rainwater and above ground tanks are the norm in Aus and the only problem I have ever had is when a frog decides to die in the tank. Amazing how one frog can "flavour" a whole 22000L and nothing ruins your morning coffee like dead frog flavouring.

Looks like the Bundaberg, Brisbane and Grafton areas have copped a hiding from this storm. Hope your sons friend is somewhere on high ground.