What to do during a cyclone

Once a cyclone warning has been declared it is important to keep monitoring the situation and undertake final preparations for the severe weather event.

A final cleanup should be done around the home, making sure any outdoor furniture or loose items are secured or moved indoors.

Swimming pools can be used to submerge plastic outdoor furniture to stop it flying around in high winds while wheelie bins can be filled with water for more stability if unable to be brought indoors.

Vehicles and boats should be secured and moved under shelter.

Unplug all electrical items and turn off electricity and gas main supplies if instructed by authorities.

Fill buckets and baths with clean water in case the water supply becomes restricted. 

Secure windows by closing shutters, if you have them, or by taping them in a criss-cross pattern with strong packing tape.

Find out from your local council if your home is in a storm tide evacuation area. If it is, stay with friends or family who live in secure accommodation or an evacuation centre.

Cyclone evacuation centres should only be considered as a last resort. They have very basic facilities and are intended as a short-term shelter.

Contact your local council for more information about your nearest cyclone shelter.

Staying at home is often the best option if you are outside a tidal surge zone, however if you live in a home built before 1982, or have special needs, it may be safer to stay elsewhere.

Consider any special medical needs you may have, such as access to power, clean water (for dialysis) or oxygen.

Make sure you have an evacuation plan and kit.

During a cyclone

• Stay tuned to warnings (keep a battery-powered radio in your emergency kit).
• Activate your emergency plan.
• Stay inside and shelter well clear of windows, doors and skylights.
• Don't use a landline telephone or taps during a severe storm as lightning can travel down phone lines and plumbing.
• If the building starts to break up, shelter in the strongest part (cellar, internal room, hallway or built-in wardrobe) under a mattress, strong table or bench.

Source: Queensland Government