Disaster Management Group members encouraged by the preparedness of our Cape communities as TC Nathan approaches the coast
The Far North District Disaster Management Group have met today to discuss Tropical Cyclone Nathan and the subsequent impacts on our northern communities between Lockhart River to Port Douglas, extending inland to areas including Laura and Palmerville.
Far North District Officer, Acting Chief Superintendent Brett Schafferius and Adrian Stafford from QFES today spoke with local media and encouraged residents across the far north to closely monitor Tropical Cyclone (TC) Nathan’s tracking map via www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/
Residents in the far north are urged to take steps before, during and after any disaster to help reduce potential loss of life and property damage.
Planning and preparation prior to a cyclone will help you to remain calm and take positive, effective steps towards protecting yourself and your family.
TC Nathan @ 2pm 19.3.15
Hourly updates available on www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/
Coastal residents between Cape Melville and Cape Tribulation are specifically warned of the dangerous storm tide that could occur as the cyclone crosses the coast.
Seas are likely to rise steadily up to a level well above the normal tide, with damaging waves and flooding of some low-lying areas, which could also extend some way inland.
People living in areas likely to be affected by this flooding should take measures to protect their property as much as possible and be prepared to follow instructions regarding evacuation of the area if advised to do so by the authorities.
Tides may just exceed the highest tide of the year on the coast south of Cape Tribulation to Port Douglas on the high tide on Friday.
Heavy rainfall, may lead to flash flooding about the coast between Coen and Cape Tribulation tonight, extending west through inland parts with the passage of Tropical Cyclone Nathan on Friday.
A separate Severe Weather Warning for abnormally high tides is current for the coast from Port Douglas to Innisfail.
Whilst Cairns are no longer on watch, residents are still urged to be prepared for the possibility of localised flooding where they would normally see flooding.
How prepared are you?
A few hours spent working through simple planning tasks with your household, putting aside supplies, tidying up your property and securing your home could mean the difference between life and death.
Emergency Management Queensland encourage us all to prepare now and be ready to respond to an emergency or a natural disaster.
Here are four steps to assist you in preparing your household for natural hazards and emergencies.
Step 1. Prepare an Emergency Plan and Prepare for Evacuation.
Step 2. Prepare an Emergency Kit.
Step 3. Prepare your home.
Step 4. Tune into Warnings.
You can also check your neighbours and prepare your pets
A great summary of how you can be prepared is the SES Get Ready Guide
Queensland State Emergency Service (SES) on 132500 (for emergency assistance with storm damage, rising flood water, fallen trees on buildings or roof damage).
Vehicles found driving beyond road closure signs can receive on-the-spot fines of $660 under provisions of the Transport Infrastructure Act.
For more information on road and weather conditions along with handy fact sheets:
Further information at the following websites:
- bom.gov.au/qld/warnings/
- qld.gov.au/getready
- 131940.qld.gov.au
- Road Conditions RACQ 24/7 – ph: 13 1905
- cairns.qld.gov.au/cyclone-emergency-information
- disaster.qld.gov.au
- emergency.qld.gov.au/ses/