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Every cyclone is different, but all of them are dangerous. If a cyclone forms that may affect Queensland waters here is how you can stay prepared.
When a tropical low or a cyclone forms in Queensland waters
Now is the time to be aware, but not alarmed.
Know your risk of cyclone and storm surge - tune in to official Bureau of Meteorology updates and your local council's disaster dashboard. If you are at risk of being affected by storm surge, know your evacuation plans ahead of time, don't forget your pets and animals.
Check your emergency plan is up to date, has important contact numbers and everyone in your household knows their part.
Pull out your emergency kit and check the contents against a checklist. You'll want at least three days of supplies, more if you're in a rural or remote area or if you are at risk of isolation.
Have a chat with your neighbours. Knowing who might need a hand later makes a real difference.
If you live near the coast between Bundaberg and the Torres Strait, being ready is part of Queensland life. Getting ready now means you're not scrambling later.
If a cyclone is forecast to impact where you live
Once the forecast tracks the cyclone toward your area, it's time to move from checking to doing.
Fuel your car and park it in a sheltered spot on high ground, away from trees, powerlines, waterways and any potential storm surge.
Secure loose items around your property: boats, caravans, trailers, outdoor furniture, shade sails and anything else that could become airborne.
Fasten cyclone screens if you have them, and board up exposed windows and doors.
Fill containers with drinking water in case essential services go down.
Know how to turn off your electricity (including solar), gas and water, in case emergency services ask you to.
Identify your shelter room. Usually the smallest room in your house with no windows, like a bathroom. Add it to your emergency plan. If you can't avoid windows in your shelter, plan ahead to have a mattress or heavy blanket to protect you.
Check in with family, friends and neighbours, especially anyone who might need extra support.
Stay calm, but stay informed. This is the window to get everything in place before conditions turn.
If a cyclone is forecast to impact where you live within 24-48 hours
As the cyclone moves towards the coast it will gradually start to impact the coastline with strong winds and rough seas. Pay attention to the following indications on the Bureau of Meteorology Tropical Cyclone forecast track map:
a warning area (dark orange) - indicating that gale-force or stronger winds are expected in the next 24 hours
a watch area (light orange) - indicating that gale-force or stronger winds might happen in the next 24–48 hours.
Storm surge or Storm tide risk areas
If you are in a storm surge risk area, you should decide if you need to evacuate your home well ahead of any impacts. A storm surge or storm tide will quite often impact the coastline first, sometimes 24 hours prior to impact, so be prepared to go early, particularly if moving quickly is difficult for you.
Bring in anything still outside and finish securing your property.
Close windows, shutters and curtains, and tape plastic sheeting inside if needed to keep wind-driven rain out.
Unplug electrical items, aerials and computer equipment to avoid power-surge damage.
Have your emergency kit, plan and a grab-and-go bag ready and easy to reach.
Move indoors, bringing children and pets with you.
Keep listening to official warnings and be ready to shelter for many hours.
When a cyclone is crossing the coast
Cyclones sound like a roaring train or jet engine, and skies will darken fast. These conditions may continue for many hours.
The eye of the cyclone at the centre of the storm can be still, calm and quiet. Do not assume this means the cyclone is over. The second half of the cyclone often brings stronger, more intensive winds that return quickly with little warning.
Stay inside, away from windows and glass doors, preferably in your shelter room, until official advice confirms it's safe to go outside.
