Cyclones and Floods

Cyclones are severe tropical storms, in which air movement around a low pressure system can cause destructive winds, and heavy rain. Kuranda can expect a cyclone every few years, with a more severe cyclone perhaps once in a decade.

To be prepared for a cyclone

• Before the cyclone season, (roughly Christmas to Easter), secure any loose materials that could be blown away.
• Keep a few days supply of emergency food in the house.
• Replace batteries for radio and torches.
• Have alternative lighting and cooking facilities for use in power blackouts.
• Listen to cyclone reports on the radio and do not go out once the cyclone arrives.
• If the cyclone is classed as severe (category 1 is mild, category 5 is the most severe) tape windows and take shelter in the strongest part of the house (usually the bathroom).

During a cyclone wind gusts can be sudden and severe. Stay indoors to avoid danger. Listen to the radio for information. If the ‘eye’ of the cyclone arrives, there may be a sudden calm. Do not go out as the wind can resume quickly from the opposite direction. Once the cyclone has passed roads may be impassable due to flooding, fallen trees, and fallen power lines. Advise electricity authorities if you see power lines down, but do not risk touching them.

Flooding

While much of the Kuranda area is not flood prone, if you live on a creek or river it is sensible to check with long term residents to find out previous flood heights. Streams may rise several metres in some situations. Most local streams will flood briefly after heavy rain, but the usually small catchment areas of local streams means flooding subsides rapidly. Not so for the Barron River, where flooding can last for weeks in a very wet period.

Be cautious in attempting to cross flooded streams, either on foot or in a vehicle. If your home is flood prone, make plans in advance for how you might deal with flooding, which may occur quite quickly, possibly in the night. Check if your insurance policy covers floods; many don’t.