Cyclone, Weather and Fire

In the event of an emergency, an Evacuation Centre will be located at the Shark Bay Recreation Centre, Francis Road Denham.

Fire

Fire Danger Ratings and Emergency Warnings - Emergency WA website.

Total Fire Bans - https://www.emergency.wa.gov.au/#totalfirebans

What is prohibited during a Total Fire Ban - Department of Fire and Emergency Services website

For information on Burning Permits and to view the Shire's Fire Break Notice - please click here

Cyclone Emergency Information

Being prepared helps protect you, your family and your property. This page provides clear, essential information to help you get ready, stay safe and stay informed.

It is estimated that a cyclone impact causing wind gusts in excess of 90 km/h in the vicinity of Shark Bay occurs about once every five years on average.

In general, cyclones weaken as they move southwards over cooler water.

The semi-enclosed bays exposed to strong winds increases the risk of Shark Bay to storm surge.

Cyclones have occurred from December to May although they are most frequent in February and March.

Emergency Information: 13 3337           SES Emergency Assistance: 132 500

In an Emergency

If your life or property is in immediate danger, call 000.

For emergency updates and warnings, always follow official sources:

Get Prepared

Don't wait until a cyclone is approaching. prepare early.

Make A Plan

  • Discuss what you will with your household
  • Know where you will shelter
  • Plan how you will communicate if services are disrupted
  • Identify support for elderly family members, children and pets

Prepare an Emergency Kit

Your kit should include:

  • Secure loose outdoor items
  • Trim overhanging branches
  • Clear gutters and drains
  • Check roof and fencing
  • Protect windows if needed

Preparation Checklist

Before Cyclone Season

  • Update emergency kit
  • Review your household plan
  • Check property maintenance
  • Save emergency contact numbers

When a Cyclone Is Approaching

  • Monitor official warnings
  • Charge devices
  • Secure outdoor items
  • park vehicles safely
  • Store documents safely

Staying Safe During a Cyclone

While a cyclone is impacting your area:

  • Stay indoors at all times
  • Keep away from windows and glass doors
  • Shelter in the strongest part of your home
  • Use battery radio or mobile device for updates
  • Avoid using gas or fuel appliance indoor
  • Do not go outside during the 'eye' of the storm

Only leave your shelter when authorities say it is safe

DFES has kindly provided a check list for you.  

DFES Cyclone Emergency Kit Fact Sheet.   

The New Australian Warning System 

2024 saw the launch of the Australian Warning System (AWS).  Please read this information as it may save property and lives.

Call to Action - Advice

  • Prepare now
  • Stay informed
  • Monitor conditions
  • Stay informed/threat is reduced
  • Avoid the area
  • Return with caution

Call to Action - Watch and Act

  • Prepare to leave/evacuate
  • Leave/evacuate now (if you are not prepared)
  • Prepare to take shelter
  • Move/stay indoors
  • Stay near shelter
  • Walk two or more streets back
  • Monitor conditions as they are changing
  • Be aware of ember attack
  • Move to higher ground (away from creeks/rivers/coast)
  • Limit time outside (cyclone, heat, asthma)
  • Avoid the area/avoid the flooded area
  • Stay away from damaged buildings and other hazards
  • Prepare for isolation
  • Protect yourself against the impacts of extreme heat
  • Do not enter flood water
  • Not safe to return
  • Prepare your property (cyclone/storm)

 

Call to Action - Emergency Warning

  • Leave/evacuate (immediately, by am/pm/hazard timing)
  • Seek/take shelter now
  • Shelter indoors now
  • Too late/dangerous to leave

      Stay Informed

      For accurate, up-to-date information, rely on:

      Important Contacts

      Emergency Services (Police / Fire / Ambulance): 000

      State Emergency Service (SES): 13 25 00

      DFES Information Line: 13 33 37

      Main Roads WA: 138 138

      Evacuation Centres and Shelters

      During severe weather events, evacuation centres may be opened to support residents who are unable to safely remain in their homes.

      Primary Evacuation Centre

      The Recreation Centre is the towns primary evacuation point. The Recreation Centre is located on Francis Road.

      The Department of Communities operates evacuation centres in coordination with emergency services and the Shire. The evacuation centre is equipped to provide food rations, bedding and toiletries (including a towel) for 100 people. Please bring clothing for 3 days if safe to do so.

      Animals are not permitted in the evacuation centre, with exceptions made for guide dogs. Please note support animals are not counted as guide dogs.  

      For more information regarding cyclones, please refer to Bureau of Meteorology - About Tropical Cyclones

      Denham Maritime Facility - Community Information - please click here

      Weather

      Severe Weather Warnings from the Australian Government Bureau are issued when necessary and updated on Australian Bureau of Meteorology - Western Australia