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CYCLONE

Tropical cyclones can impact the north west coast from November to April. Other areas like the Midwest-Gascoyne and Goldfields-Midlands often experience flooding as a cyclone moves south.

Cyclones can be severe and cross the WA coast every year with destructive winds, torrential rainfall, flooding,

dangerous storm surge and heavy swells. Your safety is your responsibility.

Be the calm before the storm and follow the advice below to get prepared, stay informed and keep safe during the cyclone season.

The cyclone season officially runs from 1st November to 30th April each year. It is very important to remember, however, that cyclones have been known to occur every month of the year.

The Department of Fire & Emergency Services is the designated Hazard Management Agency for Cyclones in Western Australia and has much information available regarding preparation for cyclones, actions to take during cyclone alerts, and general information associated with any of the possible outcomes of cyclone impact. Our communities sometimes become complacent about cyclones, this places both the individual and the community at risk - cyclones can damage and devastate our communities.

What are tropical cyclones?

Tropical cyclones are low-pressure systems that form over warm tropical waters.

A tropical low becomes a cyclone when there are wind gusts of more than 90km/h around its centre.

When the wind gusts reach 165km/h, it’s categorised as a severe tropical cyclone.

Once formed, tropical cyclones can continue for many days, even weeks, and may follow quite erratic paths.

Dangers of tropical cyclones

Tropical cyclones are frightening! They can cause death, injury, major structural damage and disruption to essential supplies like electricity, water and gas.

Destructive winds, torrential rain and storm surge can cause flooding and extensive damage to buildings and outdoor structures (especially those poorly maintained or located in exposed locations)

The most intense or destructive weather occurs at the centre, or eye of cyclones. In these conditions, small objects become deadly missiles and can make being outside dangerous.

During cyclones, being outside can be deadly. This includes driving a vehicle or being in a boat.

Cyclones can intensify. Stay safe by having a cyclone plan, a safe place to shelter, supplies and know how to stay informed.

The Department of Fire & Emergency Services launched the 'Be the calm before the Storm'