Cyclone Alerts

Blue Alert

• A cyclone has formed and may affect the area within 48 hours. Check that all preparation activities have been undertaken.
• Clear your area of all loose material and rubbish.
• Check that cyclone screens are available or securely fitted in place.
• Ensure emergency supplies are to hand.
• Check that caravan, boat, trailer and other cyclone tie-down equipment is available.
• Observe economy in the use of water.

Yellow Alert

• A cyclone is moving closer to the area and appears inevitable. Timing will be calculated by time, place & circumstances. A risk assessment needs to be undertaken by employers and employees to determine when to close business and send employees home. The SES will advise businesses to implement their Cyclone Action Plans. Remember employers have a duty of care and could be held responsible. Carry out the following activities:
• Ensure that all loose material and objects around residences, commercial and industrial buildings and work areas are safely stowed or secured.
• Check that all cyclone screens are securely fastened into position.
• Secure caravans, boats, trailers, etc, to their tiedown positions.
• Prepare safe shelter for pets or animals.
• Top up vehicle fuel tanks.
• Fill emergency containers with water and make sure all other emergency supplies are to hand.

Red Alert

• A cyclone is imminent.
• Make arrangements to be in your residence and/or shelter areas when the cyclone arrives.
• Ensure pets and animals are safely sheltered.
• When parking up vehicles, select the best available sheltered area, apply handbrake and engage park or reverse gear.
• As wind velocities increase, shut all windows.
• During the height of the cyclone, keep clear of windows and stay in the most sheltered part of your residence.
• Should the eye of the cyclone pass immediately over the area, be aware that the wind will temporarily drop, then blow in the opposite direction.
• Except in extreme emergencies, stay indoors until the cyclone All Clear is announced.
• If you are unavoidably caught in the cyclone in an unprotected area, make your way, stooping or crawling if necessary, to shelter. Otherwise lie down and hang on.
• Continue to listen to your radio for up-to-date instructions affecting the area.

All Clear

• The cyclone has passed the area but there may still be high winds and heavy rain.
• Only venture outdoors with caution.
• Check for fallen trees, broken power lines, broken water and drain lines, loose sheeting and debris.
• Commence cleanup activities as soon as practical.
• Report dangerous situations to the authorities.

Click here to download a printable Cyclone Tracking Map.