Northern Territory tropical cyclone outlook released, communities urged to start preparations

15/10/2012

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued its tropical cyclone seasonal outlook today, reminding Territory residents to prepare now for the coming cyclone season.

Northern Territory Acting Regional Director, Todd Smith, said that on average we see two to three cyclones form in waters around the Northern Territory each year, and the majority tend to impact coastal areas in some way.

“Due to key oceanic and atmospheric indicators being close to normal for this time of the year, early signals suggest we can expect a near-average tropical cyclone season,” said Mr Smith.

“The Darwin Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre will be in full swing before the first cyclone is named, and we’ll be providing the most accurate, up-to-date warning information available. It is up to Territorians to understand the weather threats in their area, know where to go for the latest warnings, and act on advice from emergency services.”

Northern Territory Emergency Service Acting Director, Troy Crilly, said regardless of whether we end up with more or less tropical cyclones this year; it’s the cyclone season, and it’s time to prepare now.

“Residents across the Top End and island communities need to make the most of the remainder of October to clean up their yards, refresh their emergency kit and consider what they will do if and when a cyclone watch or warning is declared,” said Mr Crilly.

“It is essential that people in cyclone prone areas plan ahead and decide whether they will evacuate to safer ground, or what their options are to shelter from dangerous weather conditions.”

The Darwin Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre operates out of the Bureau’s Northern Territory Regional Office. Here, specialist forecasters will work around the clock with their emergency services partners to keep you informed of any cyclone threat.

The cyclone season extends from 1 November to 30 April 2012.