For people in the Disaster Management world, Cyclone season starts on November 1 and runs through until about April or May of the following year.
With the development of a low pressure system off the Solomon Islands, that could form into a cyclone later today, Cyclone season is here in Far North Queensland.
This is a timely reminder to make sure you are cyclone prepared around your houses and businesses.
Most people may already be prepared but a quick reminder can never hurt.
Sergeant Bill Stanley, Executive Officer, Mareeba District Disaster Management Group is asking the community to use the next few days to have a look around their homes and make sure they are prepared.
For more important information on being prepared click on 'Read More' (also the MBCA presentation from last Tuesday night can be viewed here Cyclone Awareness Presentation 2023)
“We need the community to understand the risk. This weather event is a great reminder to see what may affect them and their surrounds and then prepare,” Sergeant Stanley said.
Tidy up around the yard and remove debris and items that can become missiles in strong winds.
Trim trees close to your home and clear leaves and debris from guttering.
Remember to be extra careful and look up and live around powerlines.
Make a household emergency plan. This plan details what you’ll do, where you’ll go and who you’ll call in an emergency.
Natural disasters can cause major disruptions, so you need to pack an emergency kit. Now is the time to pull together supplies to keep you safe if you are isolated for a few days.
Click here to access a Household Emergency Plan template.
A seven day forecast for cyclones is available at: http://www.bom.gov.au/cyclone
Locals in the Far North District are encouraged to monitor the current weather conditions by monitoring the www.bom.gov.au website.
Locals are also urged to be ready for changes in weather conditions.
The Queensland Government “Get Ready” website details a four-step preparation plan along with safety tips for cyclones, severe storms, flood and tsunamis.
- STEP 1: Prepare your emergency plan
- STEP 2: Prepare your emergency kit
- STEP 3: Prepare your home
- STEP 4: Tune into warnings
Further information at the following websites: