Question

What is a cyclone? Discuss the measures one should take to be prepared for a cyclone.

Answer 1

Cyclone is a system of winds rotating inwards to an area of low barometric pressure, with an anticlockwise (northern hemisphere) or clockwise (southern hemisphere) circulation; a depression

• Check with your local council or your building control authority to see if your home has been built to cyclone standards.
• Check that the walls, roof and eaves of your home are secure.
• Trim treetops and branches well clear of your home (get council permission).
• Preferably fit shutters, or at least metal screens, to all glass areas.
• Clear your property of loose material that could blow about and possibly cause injury or damage during extreme winds.
• In case of a storm surge/tide warning, or other flooding, know your nearest safe high ground and the safest access route to it.
• Prepare an emergency kit containing:
• A portable battery radio, torch and spare batteries;
• Water containers, dried or canned food and a can opener;
• Matches, fuel lamp, portable stove, cooking gear, eating utensils; and
• A first aid kit and manual, masking tape for windows and waterproof bags.
• Keep a list of emergency phone numbers on display.
• Check neighbours, especially if recent arrivals, to make sure they are prepared.

Answer 2

In meteorology, a cyclone is a large scale air mass that rotates around a strong center of low atmospheric pressure. Cyclones are characterized by inward spiraling winds that rotate about a zone of low pressure. ... Cyclogenesis is the process of cyclone formation and intensification.

Bring your family into the strongest part of the house. Keep listening to the radio for cyclone updates. If the building begins to break up, shelter under a strong table, bench or heavy mattress. Beware the calm eye of the cyclone: stay inside until told it is safe to go outside.