Territorians are being urged to prepare for cyclones, flooding and associated severe weather events as the official start to the Tropical Cyclone season on 1 November looms.
The Bureau of Meteorology’s long-range Tropical Cyclone Season forecast for 2022-23 released last week indicated there was an increased risk of an above average number of tropical cyclones and tropical lows and an increased risk of widespread flooding for northern Australia.
Due to current climate influences such as La Nina and a negative Indian Ocean Dipole, the Bureau is predicting there is a greater than 70 per cent chance of at least 11 tropical cyclones, which is the long-term average impacting the Australian region.
Accordingly, Northern Territory Emergency Service Deputy Director Bob Evans is urging Territorians to prepare now for the Wet Season.
“The flood crisis currently impacting south eastern states serves as a timely reminder for all Territorians to be ready for the extreme weather conditions that traditionally come with the Wet Season,” Mr Evans said.
“One thing Territorians should always do this time of year is to prepare for cyclones.
“Just because we have had fewer tropical cyclones in recent years, doesn’t mean we should become complacent.
“When a cyclone impacts communities, people can be without power or water for days at a time, Cyclone Marcus in 2018 was a prime example.
“In order to make sure you and your family can make it through the impact of a cyclone you need to prepare your cyclone kit now. All households should also have an emergency plan in place.”
With the Bureau also predicting an increased risk of flooding in northern Australia, Mr Evans reminded Territorians of the associated risks floods can bring.
“Flooding is a common occurrence during the Wet Season in the Northern Territory. If you are driving and come across a flooded road, do not risk yours or your family’s safety by entering the water. If it’s flooded, forget it.
For information relating to cyclones, flooding and other emergency weather events Territorians should go to the SecureNT website and Facebook page.
“132 500 is the number for the Hotline for SES if you need help as a result of emergency weather events. In life threatening emergencies, always contact triple zero.”
More information:
- Household Emergency plans and other preparation information https://www.securent.nt.gov.au
- Tropical Cyclone Knowledge Centre: https://www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/tropical-cyclone-knowledge-centre/
- Bureau’s Know Your Weather, Know Your Risk webpage: https://www.bom.gov.au/knowyourweather/
- Severe Weather Knowledge Centre: https://www.bom.gov.au/weather-services/severe-weather-knowledge-centre/
- Flood Knowledge Centre: https://www.bom.gov.au/australia/flood/knowledge-centre/
- Australian Tropical Cyclone long-range forecast for 2022 to 2023 https://www.bom.gov.au/climate/cyclones/australia/
