Plotting a Cyclone Track

Cyclone tracking maps

Printable background maps for plotting your cyclone track:

• Australian areas
  • Western & Northern areas

How to use the cyclone plotting map

1. Using positions of the cyclone centres as indicated in the Bulletins or Advices, the approximate cyclone track can be plotted on the linked maps above .
2. Usually, the place names mentioned in Bulletins or Advices are those indicated on the linked maps.
3. When plotting you should use the decimal latitude and longitude. (In Bulletins or Advices, 12.5S means 12 ½ degrees south).
4. Beware that the dangerous winds associated with the cyclone extend far from the centre so may arrive many hours before the cyclone centre. (Check latest Advice for details)
5. As new information comes to hand, some cyclones may be re-positioned if the tracking has been off-course. This may create a bend in your track that is not real.
   Make sure this does not trick you.
6. The track maps produced by the Bureau with each warning will show past positions as corrected to indicate the true path.

Further information: TC John tracking exercises

Tropical cyclone forecast track map
Issued with tropical cyclone advices to give a graphical representation of the cyclone's past track forecast movement and its threat area.