January 18, 2021 - Be prepared for Tropical Cyclone Kimi
BE PREPARED FOR TROPICAL CYCLONE KIMI
Cassowary Coast Regional Council advises residents to keep up to date with the weather conditions and begin preparations for impacts from Tropical Cyclone Kimi.
Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor urged residents to not be complacent and to stay aware of the changing conditions.
“We, like many people across North Queensland, are watching Tropical Cyclone Kimi closely. The Local Disaster Management Team are on alert and watching as the cyclone progresses towards the North Queensland coast.
“At this stage, we don’t know what the impact will be for the Cassowary Coast region, however Council is taking steps to prepare the region for the potential impact.
“Council is currently finalising its local preparations and monitoring local roads and infrastructure,” Councillor Nolan said.
“We encourage residents to take this time to make preparations for possible strong winds and heavy rain, which may lead to flooding. If you live in a coastal area, be prepared for large waves and coastal erosion which can cause low lying coastal areas to become inundated. If you live in an area subject to flooding, move all items from lower levels up off the ground and be prepared to switch off electrical items in these areas.
“Check your household cyclone kit is stocked and ready, including a first aid kit and supplies of any essential medications you may require.
“Securely store or tie down any loose items in your yard, such as outdoor furniture and trampolines and securely tie down caravans or boats or move undercover,” Councillor Nolan continued.
Councillor Nolan directed residents to Councils Disaster Dashboard. The dashboard not only has the latest local hazard information and advices, but also has handy checklists that can be used in your preparations.
“It’s also an important reminder that should the region experience heavy rainfall, it’s important to drive to the conditions if you are on the road and remember- if it’s flooded, forget it.
“Residents will also need to decide whether their homes are safe, or if they will need to evacuate if Tropical Cyclone Kimi makes landfall on the Cassowary Coast.
“At this stage, the cyclone shelters have not been activated as there is no forecast for storm tide. We will provide further updates if this changes.
“Residents should make plans to shelter at home, if safe to do so or with friends or family in safer locations.
“It’s important that residents remain calm but aware of the situation. If you have vulnerable neighbours who may need assistance preparing, I would also encourage you to touch base and ensure that they are aware of the situation and are prepared.”
In addition Mayor Nolan cautioned that heavy rainfall may create water supply issues across Cassowary Coast water supply systems and residents should minimise their water usage to ensure clean water storage in reservoirs can meet demands until the current weather event has improved.
If you or anyone requires assistance or sandbags, please contact the SES on 132 500 at any time.
Please also keep an eye on the Bureau of Meteorology as updates will be provided throughout the coming days.
The Disaster Dashboard can be found at www.disaster.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au
Media contact 0417 721 754 | comms@ccrc.qld.gov.au