Australia’s cyclone season traditionally occurs in the northern areas of Australia between November and April, however preparing for a cyclone can start before there is an immediate threat.
Tropical cyclones start out as low-pressure systems that occur over warmer tropical oceans, including the oceans surrounding the northern and western areas of Australia. A low-pressure system draws energy from the warm waters, forming a convection current of gale force winds and moisture that rotate around a calm centre known as the cyclone eye.
A cyclone system travels as it picks up power and while cyclones can start and end over the oceans, unfortunately for us they can also move towards land. Torrential rain and flooding, tidal surges and destructive wind speeds of up to 280 kilometres per hour can cause loss of life, as well as extensive damage to property and communities.
Unlike many weather conditions, meteorologists can identify cyclone formation well in advance as they take shape over northern oceans before tracking towards our coastlines. This gives valuable time for preparation and public warnings to be issued for what is one of nature’s most furious challenges.
If you live in a cyclone prone area, especially if you have recently moved, The Bureau of Meteorology advises checking with your local council or building authority that your home and other buildings have been constructed according to the Cyclone Rating building codes, and whether your property is located in a storm surge area. Knowing this information about your home makes a difference to how you proceed when a cyclone is approaching.
The following upgrades and maintenance are recommended by state-based emergency services to minimise damage to your home during a cyclone:
Remember, even a plastic bucket can be dangerous when travelling at high speed so tie down or bring inside any loose building materials, toys, garden furniture and rubbish bins before a cyclone hits, the WA Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) advises.
It is essential you have a plan and everyone in a household knows what to do on the approach of a cyclone, when to do it, and why. This downloadable Cyclone and Storm Guide by the Northern Territory Emergency Service is a useful guideline on what your plan should cover.
Make sure your family recognises the Standard Emergency Warning Signal, which is broadcast via TV and radio, when a cyclone is 12 hours or less away. You can also check current warnings for your area or receive SMS alerts for your area at www.emergencyalert.gov.au.
The safest place in your house to shelter depends on the cyclone rating of your property, and is usually a basement, bathroom or internal passageway.
Part of your emergency plan should include an emergency kit, which can be put together and stored until needed. Emergency services recommend your kit carry the following items:
Don’t wait until a cyclone warning has been issued to supplement your kit with non perishable food, water or medicines - supermarket shelves can be sold out of stock in a matter of hours when a cyclone is approaching.
These are community buildings that are capable of providing protection from winds of up to 300km per hour.
Get familiar with where the nearest cyclone emergency shelter is to you, in case you have to leave your house. Western Australia advises residents to check their local council website for details on shelters.
If you receive advice to relocate to a safe place, before you leave switch off utilities such as power, gas and water and lock the doors.
The Bureau of Meteorology is the peak body in Australia for cyclone information and updates, while www.emergency.wa.gov.au/ provide useful localised advice.
This article is intended as a general guide only. You should consult your state fire and emergency services for further information.
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