Here the BoM have update their Tropical Cyclone ooutlook for the coming up 2011/12 cyclone season.
Tropical Cyclone Seasonal Outlook for Queensland
Summary: Communities urged to prepare early for the wet season.
The pre-season roadshow is underway in Queensland, as part of the annual planning process for the wet season.
Bureau of Meteorology Queensland Regional Director, Jim Davidson, said this year's roadshow had been further expanded to include a total of 13 seminars throughout the state to assist in preparation for the coming storm, cyclone and flood season.
"The roadshow is not a new concept, but there is certainly a heightened awareness of the impacts of severe weather and flooding following the events of last season."
"North Queensland still bears the scars of tropical cyclone Yasi which crossed the coast approximately mid-way between Cairns and Townsville earlier this year, and while the outlook for the coming wet season is considerably more favourable than last year, our climate models are still leaning toward a slightly above average outlook for tropical cyclone activity in Queensland."
"Predicting the number of tropical cyclones for the coming season is not an exact science, but rather a likely range. If we consider the average for Queensland as three to four, then we might be looking at a figure slightly higher, of four to five, with perhaps one or two making landfall. This is the scenario we need to be ready for, and preparation is key."
"While our climate models are trending toward La Niņa, there is no indication the activity will be as widespread and intense as last season," said Mr Davidson.
"The roadshows encourage a partnership approach to emergency management across Queensland, and provide a forum to share knowledge and experience from recent events to help us prepare for, respond quickly to and recover from a disaster."
This event brings together a range of key stakeholders including the Bureau of Meteorology, Queensland Tropical Cyclone Consultative Committee, Queensland Government and various emergency services organisations to build resilient communities through planning, preparation and education.
Further enquires to:
Vikash Prasad (07) 3239 8624
Qld Severe Weather Section