The Northern Territory Emergency Service (NTES) is urging all Territorians to prepare for the High Risk Weather Season.
The Bureau of Meteorology reminds the community that the period from October to April is the Territory's peak time for heatwaves, severe thunderstorms, tropical lows, cyclones, flooding, and, particularly in the south, bushfires.
Acting Commissioner Fleur O'Connor said preparation is key to ensuring safety during the upcoming season. "Territorians are no strangers to severe weather, and the High-Risk Weather Season serves as a reminder to prepare your homes, families, and businesses. Simple actions like clearing gutters, securing outdoor items, and developing an emergency plan can make all the difference in a crisis."
The Bureau predicts the first significant rains of the wet season are likely to be earlier than usual.
"Rainfall in September was above average across most of the Territory and the highest on record across parts of the west, but we've also seen an early start to our Heatwave Warning Service, and a number of dangerous fires continue across the Territory," Shenagh Gamble, NT Manager of Hazard Preparedness and Response, said. "While we are expecting an average risk of tropical cyclones this year, it only takes one to significantly impact our communities.
Download the BoM app and enable push notifications to ensure you are up to date with warnings for your location."
Margaret Pratten, TIO Head of Operations, emphasises the importance of preparedness, "TIO's free SMS weather alerts ensure Territorians, whether you are a TIO customer or not, are informed and can prepare when severe weather is on its way. These real-time alerts provide the opportunity to safeguard your home, property, and family. Early warnings enable Territorians to take quick action, whether it's securing outdoor items or making those final preparations to help protect their homes."
To register for TIO SMS severe weather alerts, visit https://www.tiofi.com.au/alerts
NTES advises all residents to review their emergency kits, stay updated with the latest weather information, and follow safety advice throughout the season.
For more information on how to prepare, visit the Northern Territory Emergency Service website.
