A tropical cyclone is a massive collection of whirling wind and dense cloud mass, spiralling clockwise around a central eye of exceptional low pressure.
The severity of a tropical cyclone is described in terms of categories ranging from 1 (weakest) to 5 (strongest), which is related to the maximum mean wind speed.
With winds reaching speeds in excess of 200km/h, cyclones can be extremely dangerous.
On average annually the Australian region experiences ten (10) cyclones.
The Bureau of Meteorology keeps the public informed by issuing cyclone watches and warnings, which are available on their website.
An evacuation order for a cyclone is only issued if lives may be at risk from a storm tide surge. In Wujal Wujal a wind-threat does not trigger evacuation.
Things to do once a cyclone warning is issued and cyclone impact is imminent:
- Turn off power, water or gas if advised by the Wujal Wujal Local Disaster Management Group or Ergon Energy.
- Turn off outdoor LPG tanks to reduce the risk of fire if tanks are damaged or dislodged.
- Unplug small appliances, which may be affected by power surges as the cyclone approaches.
- Close all interior doors. Secure and brace external doors.
- Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, sinks, plastic bottles, cooking pots and any other safe storage containers.
- Turn off major appliances if the power is lost. Power surges may occur when electricity is restored, which can cause damage to your appliances if left on.
- Retrieve your emergency kit and ensure this is nearby at all times.
Timely awareness and adequate preparation will reduce the impact of such events.
Stay prepared, stay safe, and look after one another. Let’s work together to keep Wujal community safe.