Kimberley and Pilbara urged prepare now for a possible cyclone

Wednesday 27 January 2016

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services is urging people in the Kimberley and Pilbara to prepare their homes and families for a possible cyclone, with a tropical low developing off the state’s northwest.

The Bureau of Meteorology this afternoon issued a Cyclone Watch for Cape Leveque to Mardie, including Broome, Wallal, Port Hedland, Dampier and Karratha.

The system could develop into a tropical cyclone on Friday.

Kimberley Acting Superintendent Glenn Hall said both residents and travellers need to prepare themselves and stay up to date.

"Residents in the north of the state may have experienced cyclones before, however every cyclone is different and now is not the time for complacency,” A/Supt Hall said.

"It only takes one cyclone to change your life and community forever.”

A/Supt Hall said people visiting the area should know that cyclones are a serious threat and familiarise themselves with the DFES Community Alerts system.

"Experiencing a severe cyclone can be frightening and traumatic, so people need to be well prepared to cope in such a dangerous situation,” he said.

Destructive winds are not the only hazard associated with a cyclone, with storm surge flooding, inland flooding from heavy rain, high seas and heavy swells also posing a danger.

A/Supt Hall said preparing for a cyclone is everyone’s responsibility and there are simple ways to get ready.

"Prepare now by trimming trees and securing any loose items around your home that could become projectiles,” he said.

"Have an emergency kit ready including a portable radio, torch, spare batteries, mobile phone, first aid kit and enough food and water for at least four days.

"Review your family’s cyclone plan and make sure everyone knows what to do.

"If you decide to leave the area, make sure you tell someone where you’re going.”

For more information on how to prepare, download a copy of Cyclone Smart from www.dfes.wa.gov.au.

END

About DFES Community Alerts

BLUE ALERT means prepare for dangerous weather.
YELLOW ALERT means take action and get ready to shelter from a cyclone.
RED ALERT means go to shelter immediately.
ALL CLEAR means that wind and storm surge dangers have passed but you need to take careto avoid the dangers caused by damage.

Keep up to date:

Visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au, call 13 DFES (13 3337), follow DFES on Twitter @dfes_wa or listen to news bulletins.

Media Contact: DFES Media and Corporate Communications 9225 5955