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Depending on the intensity and whether or not they cross the coastline, these powerful ocean storms can cause hazardous weather conditions and damage from strong winds, heavy rains and flooding.
Some areas are more at risk than others, but it’s hard to predict exactly when and where the impacts will happen. Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do to prepare for a storm ahead and put plans in place for when a cyclone is forecast.
With some smart cyclone preparation, you can save yourself time and stress down the track. Modern homes in cyclone-prone areas are designed to be wind-resilient but proper maintenance is important, while older properties may be weaker and more vulnerable to damage. If you’re renting your home, request any necessary repairs.
Begin by trimming any tree branches that are too close to your home (you may need to get permission from your local council). It’s also important to prune trees to remove damaged branches that are more at risk of falling. Check for signs of fungal disease or termite infestation that may have weakened the tree.
Before the start of the season, check if your roof has any missing, broken or loose tiles that need to be replaced, and tighten bolts on sheet metal roofing so it won’t get ripped off in destructive winds. Clean your gutters of leaves, twigs and debris – this will help prevent blocked downpipes and guard against rainwater flowing into the walls and ceilings.
Boarding up windows with plywood sheets is a temporary solution when a storm is coming, but you can also invest in long-term protection for your windows. Consider fitting aluminium roller shutters, metal screens and window film, replacing worn-out seals and covering gaps to cyclone-proof your windows and doors.
Have a plan for what to do in an emergency. You don’t want to have to rush around grabbing everything at the last minute, so pack a cyclone emergency kit with essentials like dried and canned food, drinking water, torches, first-aid and hygiene supplies. Store it safely in a waterproof container so it’s ready to go when you need it.
Whether you rent or own your home, insurance is a must-have to help you recover after damage to your property from natural disasters. For peace of mind, review your policy and contact your insurance provider to make sure your home and contents are covered for storm, cyclones and flood damage (use an online calculator to help you estimate costs).
Have you got your call list handy? Having a list of emergency numbers and other essential phone numbers will save valuable time down the track. Keep it on display where you can see it easily and add a copy to your emergency kit along with any important documents you’ll want to take with you if you need to evacuate.
When weather experts are predicting how severe a cyclone will be, they use a five-category scale based on wind speeds, which are strongest near the centre.
With the strongest wind gusts from 90 to 125km/h, a category one cyclone puts trees at risk but won’t cause much damage to homes.
In a category two cyclone, gusts reach 125–164km/h, causing minor damage to homes and increasing the risk of power failure.
Categories three and four are severe, with the strongest wind gusts ranging from 165km/h to 279km/h. These dangerous conditions can damage roofs and cause structural damage to older buildings.
With wind gusts over 280km/h, a category five cyclone can cause widespread destruction. Cyclones are usually downgraded as they move over land or cooler waters.
Tropical cyclones may be forecast up to a week ahead, with Watch or Warning bulletins issued when they are likely to impact communities within 48 hours. Here’s how to increase storm preparation when your home is under threat.
Now’s the time to tidy up loose items outside, such as garden furniture, pots, toys and outdoor equipment, that could be blown around and cause damage. Either store them away inside the house or shed or tie them down securely.
To protect windows and doors, cover them with plywood sheets – that way they won’t be battered by the elements and there’s less risk of them breaking if they get hit by flying debris. Tape plastic sheeting to the inside for extra protection from wind-driven rain.
Create a temporary water barrier for your driveway – here’s how. Make four sandbags using plastic bags and sand. Arrange along the edge of a sheet of tarp and fold it over to enclose the bags.
Power failure is more likely during a cyclone. Don’t forget to top up electronic devices while you can so you’ll be able to stay connected and receive updates.
Unplug appliances and be prepared to turn off the gas, electricity, solar system and water when you’re told to do so – remember to fill your water containers first and keep extra water aside in buckets and the bath.
You may need to shelter inside your home, so find a place that’s safe and secure. Choose a small room with small or no windows, such as a bathroom, hallway or walk-in wardrobe. Have blankets handy for protection from broken glass.
Bring dogs and cats inside with access to food and water. Don’t forget to stash some pet essentials in your emergency kit, too.
Look to your local radio, TV and news websites for up-to-date information and cyclone warnings. Check the location of your nearest evacuation shelter and follow official advice. For more info on cyclone preparation, check government guides.
