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Cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons, monsoons and tornadoes are serious risks in some destinations. In others, it's severe winter weather you need to prepare for. If you're travelling somewhere that experiences severe weather, be prepared and be informed. Before you go, know how to stay safe and avoid danger. Explore this page to learn about: This page is for Australians preparing to travel overseas. If you're already travelling and need help, see what to do if there's a severe weather incident overseas. Cyclones are powerful tropical storms that form over oceans. They travel along a path, often making landfall in populated areas along the coast. They're caused by convection currents, air pressure changes, the Earth's spin and warm air rising. The combination of impacts leads to serious property damage, and sometimes death. Drowning is the most common cause of death during a cyclone. People also die from collapsed buildings, mudslides and flying debris. Typically, most cyclones form in warmer months in tropical climates. They form over the ocean, and affect coastal areas. There are 7 cyclone 'basins' across the world: You can still safely travel to an at-risk destination during cyclone season. Just take steps to reduce the likelihood of being there when a cyclone hits. And, know what to do if you're there when one does. Before you go, check if your destination experiences cyclones. And when. Hurricanes in the North Atlantic cyclone basin usually form between June and November each year. Areas commonly affected include: Cyclones in the north-eastern Pacific Ocean basin usually form between May and November. Areas commonly affected include: Western Pacific BasinCyclones in the north-western Pacific Ocean basin usually form between April and January. In this region, they're often called typhoons. Areas commonly affected include:
There are other areas affected by Pacific Cyclones, though usually less often and to a lesser degree. These include Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. North Indian Ocean BasinCyclones in the northern Indian Ocean basin usually form between April and December Cyclones that form in the northern Indian Ocean can affect:
While cyclones rarely make landfall in the most northern parts, it's still a risk. These areas can also experience severe tropical storms and monsoons. South-West Indian Ocean basinCyclones in the southern Indian Ocean usually form between October and May.
Australian basinCyclones near Australia also affect our nearest neighbours. This includes:
South Pacific basinCyclones in the southern Pacific basin usually form between October and May. All islands in the South Pacific are affected by cyclones. Aside from Australia, these include: The global authority on severe weather reporting is the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The WMO is an agency of the United nations (UN). Many countries share services with others in the region. Northern hemisphereSouthern hemisphereTornadoesTornado basicsA tornado, also called a 'twister', is a violent column of air between the ground and a thunder cloud. Most are measured on the Fujita Scale. F1 is low intensity and F5 is extreme. The Fujita Scale considers both wind speed and damage.
Learn more about tornado safety, and see US tornado alerts (US National Weather Service) Where and when tornadoes are commonMost tornadoes occur during summer, or late spring. They usually form during a severe thunderstorm. Most form over land. Some form over water, in which case they're often called 'waterspouts'. Tornadoes in the United StatesThe United States (US) is the destination hardest hit by tornadoes. Most occur in the northern parts of 'Tornado Alley'. This stretches from northern Texas up through Oklahoma, Kansas, eastern Colorado and Nebraska. It also includes some southern states bordering these. This includes Missouri, Iowa, and Louisiana. This area is sometimes called 'Dixie Alley'. While less frequent in the south, the impact of tornadoes is often greater, especially in lower socio-economic areas. For current tornado and thunderstorm risks, see the Storm Prediction Centre (US National Weather Service). Tornadoes around the worldOther destinations that experience frequent and intense tornadoes are:
Some other countries also experience tornadoes, though less frequent and intense. This includes New Zealand, United Kingdom, South Africa and parts of Europe. Severe winter weather
Some destinations experience severe winter weather. This not only affects flights, it can lead to hypothermia, frostbite and death. Severe winter weather basicsSevere winter weather can include extreme cold, heavy snow, blizzards, freezing rain and whiteouts. Aside from impacting air travel and road travel, it can bring serious health and safety risks if you're not prepared.
Destinations where severe winter weather is commonTypically, destinations further from the equator and at higher altitudes experience more extreme cold weather events. North America
EuropeRussia experiences the most extreme cold weather in Europe. In both major cities, and in mountainous areas. Other parts of Europe don't experience the same extreme cold as Russia or North America. However, many experience heavy snow, blizzards and ice storms. This includes :
Other parts of the worldMany mountainous areas around the world experience severe winter weather. Even in destinations in typically warmer climates. In South America, many areas along the Andes mountain range can experience heavy snow, cold snaps and blizzards. As do low-lying areas further south. This includes:
Extreme hot weather
Some destinations experience extreme hot weather or heatwaves in summer. Travelling in extreme heat can be dangerous, especially if you're not used to it. Extreme hot weather basics
Extreme hot weather can happen anywhere but is more common in destinations closest to the equator. Staying safe in the heatIf you're travelling during extreme hot weather, plan your days to avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day. If you go out in the heat, rest often and stay in the shade as much as possible.
Avoid strenuous outdoor activities such as hiking or biking in extreme hot weather. Particularly if you're not usually active or used to high temperatures. Heat-related illnessesMany heat-related illnesses are mild and can be treated by getting out of the heat and drinking water. But some can be serious and need immediate medical attention. Heat-related illnesses include:
Heat exhaustion and heatstrokeHeat exhaustion is usually mild. But if you don't treat it, heat exhaustion can develop into heatstroke. Heatstroke is a medical emergency and must be treated as soon as possible. It can cause organ damage and even death if not treated promptly. Get out of the heat, cool off and hydrate if you notice signs of heat exhaustion, such as:
Seek emergency medical attention if you or your travelling companion begin to experience signs of heatstroke:
If someone is suffering from heatstrokeGet them to a cool place and help them sip water while waiting for medical help. Try to cool them off by:
Don't give someone suffering from heatstroke painkillers. It can make it worse. For more information on hot weather risks and heat illnesses, visit HealthDirect. Reducing risks and issues from any severe weather eventIf you choose to travel to a destination during a season when severe weather is likely, be prepared. Gather information, be informed and be prepared. Before you go
The Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS) reports on cyclones, floods and other natural disasters worldwide. See current disaster alerts (GDACS). How to get help overseas if there's a severe weather event
In some circumstances, the Australian Government may be able to help. However, we're limited in how and when we may provide consular assistance. In most cases, you need to exhaust all other avenues first. This includes trying to help yourself. Understand our limits. Before you go, read the Consular Service Charter. Read moreSee also
Most Australians have a great time overseas, however, sometimes things don't go as planned. See our page for general advice when things go wrong overseas. Find out what to do if you're travelling overseas and a volcano has erupted in or near your location. Learn how and where to get help. |