The quiet before the storm

I'd never really thought about that phrase, 'the quiet before the storm', before, but how true it is before a cyclone. The last couple of days have been beautiful sunny days, but we know out there in the Coral sea is a cyclone heading for us. As it approaches the coast the storm will hit and the beautiful sunshine will be a memory as it is replaced by grey skies, torrential rain and wind.




Tropical cyclone Nathan was approaching the Queensland coast last week when it did a u-turn and went back out to sea. Now it has 'regrouped' and has turned round again and is heading straight back for us. It is difficult to predict the exact track of the cyclone, so until it is closer they won't be able to tell exactly where it will make landfall. On the TV they run loads of commercials asking "are you ready for cyclone season'? The answer is, not really.  Now the cyclone is coming everybody is scrabbling around making sure they've got their cyclone kit ready, fuel in their cars, cash, and stocking up on food.

According to the 'Get Ready Queensland website, here's what you need in an emergency kit.'

CHECKLIST

	a - fresh water for three days
	b - three days worth of non-perishable food and can opener
	c - first aid kit
	d - portable radio
	e - torch
	f - sturdy gloves
	g - spare batteries for radio, torch and mobile phone
	h - essential medication
	i - mobile phone and charger
	j - important documents in sealed bags + cash
	k - baby formula + nappies
	l - waterproof bags
	m - toiletries

Include items you'd need for at least three days in case of disruption to essential services such as power and water supplies. Also, include the equipment you'll need to prepare meals with no power.

Keep your kit in a waterproof storage container and store in an easy to access location. Check your kit every three months to stock up and rotate supplies to ensure provisions are fresh and safe to use.

and this is what to do in a cyclone.

When you hear a cyclone warning and it is safe to shelter in place:

• activate your Emergency Plan
• turn off all mains supply and unplug all appliances
• bring your family into the strongest part of the house (usually the smallest room in the house with the least windows)
• keep your Emergency Kit close at hand
• stay tuned into warnings via battery radio for updates
• stay away from glass windows and remain indoors until advised
• if the building begins to break up, immediately seek shelter under a strong table or bench or under a heavy mattress.

Beware the calm eye of the cyclone

Some people venture outdoors during the eye of a cyclone, mistakenly believing that the cyclone has passed. Stay inside until you have received official advice that it is safe to go outside.