DFES calls on Mid West residents and tourists to prepare for rough cyclone season

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services is calling on residents in the Mid West and Gascoyne to prepare now for a strong cyclone season. Warm ocean temperatures and an active La Niña could bring an early and more intense cyclone season to the Mid West from November to April, according to the Bureau of Meteorology. While the coastline between Broome and Exmouth tends to be the most cyclone-prone, warmer ocean temperatures in the Mid West this year means a higher risk of cyclones, only 18 months after cyclone Seroja carved a path of destruction through the region. Mid West Gascoyne superintendent Craig Smith warned DFES was expecting an increased risk of tropical cyclones and strong winds this wet season across WA. Mr Smith recommended people begin having conversations with their families and those around them about what they would do in the case of a cyclone. He said people should not panic, but should approach the upcoming season sensibly. “We don’t want people to be alarmed, we want them to be alerted, we want them to be aware, and then they can take those preparations to keep their families and their properties safe,” Mr Smith said. “Keep up with the information but don’t get overwhelmed.” Mr Smith also sent a message to travellers, to should make sure they have done their research on the type of weather they could face if they take a trip up north. “During the summer, we do have a lot of travellers ... and we do stress to them that they take the necessary precautions and be aware of what they could potentially face,’ he said. For those who were affected by cyclone Seroja and concerned they might not be prepared for another cyclone, Mr Smith said support was available from DFES and other groups. “Support is available from agencies such as the Red Cross, if they are concerned about anything at all, make contact with those agencies to make sure they get advice and help.” On average five tropical cyclones occur near WA every season, but DFES said there was a roughly 70 per cent chance of more this year, and a significant risk of at least on severe cyclone. Mr Smith urged people to take cyclone warnings seriously, and to make sure they understood the cyclone warning system. “As long as people have a plan and they support each and look out for each other, then we can all get through safely,” he said. More information can be found at the Emergency WA, DFES and Weather Bureau websites.