Tropical cyclone outlook updated ? communities urged to stay prepared

10/02/2012

The Bureau of Meteorology has today issued an updated tropical cyclone outlook for Western Australia for the three months (February to April 2012).

As we pass the mid-point of the tropical cyclone season the Bureau and Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) are urging people in the northwest not to become complacent.

Bureau of Meteorology WA Regional Manager for Severe Weather Services, Andrew Burton, said the second half of the season is often busier than the first and carries a higher chance of a severe tropical cyclone impact.

"Although the outlook for the next couple of weeks is for a reduced risk of tropical cyclones, a level of threat still remains because about a quarter of our cyclones form during these quieter periods," said Mr Burton.

"By the end of the month the tropical cyclone risk will increase, and we would expect to see at least one cyclone threaten the coast during March or early April," Mr Burton said.

To date there have been two tropical cyclones off the northwest coast, with Heidi hitting the coast just east of Port Hedland early on 12 January, and Iggy threatening the coast later that month.

FESA is urging the community to stay safe and adhere to advice issued during a cyclone, especially during a Red Alert.

“It is vital that people stay indoors during a Red Alert until local authorities have the opportunity to make the area safe and declare an All Clear,” said FESA Acting Assistant Chief Operations Officer Rob Cox.

“We also urge people to have an emergency kit ready in case a cyclone strikes, including a battery-operated radio, spare batteries, torches and four days worth of food, water and other essential supplies.”

Tropical cyclone outlook for the remainder of the season:

• Lower than usual chance of a tropical cyclone affecting the northwest coast during February.
• Likelihood of at least one more coastal impact, with a significant risk that it could be a severe tropical cyclone.