Now is the time to prepare
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued its tropical cyclone seasonal outlook today, reminding Territory residents to prepare now for the coming cyclone season.
“All the climate drivers are pointing towards a typical tropical cyclone season for Northern Australia this year,” said Bureau of Meteorology Northern Territory Manager of Weather Services, Todd Smith.
“In a typical season, we usually see two to three cyclones form in NT waters, with at least one of those crossing the coast. This is more than we've seen recently, with only one cyclone forming in NT waters in each of the past two seasons."
"The Bureau and NT Emergency Services are preparing for whatever the coming season can throw at us...it's a natural part of our business. Now is the time for Territorians to make sure they’re ready too,” he said.
Northern Territory Emergency Service Acting Director, Michael Homden, agrees.
“Now is the time to act, before a cyclone is on the doorstep and you’ve been left without enough time to prepare yourself, your family, or your home.”
“A Household Emergency Plan is a great place to start. Discuss with your family and friends what you will do in an emergency or disaster. Where will you shelter? Is your home safe? Is your yard clear of loose material that could become a dangerous projectile during extreme winds?” asks Mr Homden.
Mr Homden advised that it may take up to 72 hours for help to arrive after a significant event. “Ensure you have an up to date emergency kit, and that your kit is able to sustain you and each member of your family for 3 days or more,” he said.
Mr Smith advised that the Bureau of Meteorology has made improvements to their cyclone warning services for this season, including extending Tropical Cyclone Track Map forecasts from 48 hours out to 72 hours. “We’re extending the track out to three days to give Territorians more time to respond and take action during an event,” he said.
The tropical cyclone season runs from 1 November to 30 April.
Further information:
Tropical cyclone warnings and information www.bom.gov.au/weather/cyclone
Household Emergency plans and other preparation information http://www.securent.nt.gov.au
General information about Tropical Cyclones www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/about/
Updates on the El Niño Southern Oscillation www.bom.gov.au/climate/enso