North West prepares for cyclone season

The previous cyclone season in the North West saw four cyclones developing off the WA coast, three of which made landfall and two which became a severe category.

Bureau of Meteorology severe weather meteorologist Greg Browning said although last season was relatively quiet, flooding became a major issue due to cyclone Rusty earlier this year.

"Rusty was a category four over water and made landfall near Pardoo where it was a category three," he said.

"There was only minor structural damage, however heavy rainfall caused a lot of major flooding inland."

Now with another cyclone season approaching, community awareness campaigns are aiming to ensure everyone is aware of their responsibilities during this time of year.

Horizon Power's Branding and Education Manager Andrew Riches said Horizon Power was actively preparing for cyclones and storms, and urged the community to do the same.

"It is important everybody actively prepares for cyclones and storms as a few simple steps can really help minimise damage," he said.

"Horizon Power will be undertaking vegetation trimming works in preparation for cyclone season, but trees on private property are the responsibility of the home-owner.

"Cleaning up around the outside of your home and making sure (your property) is secured or stored away will help prevent damage to your property and that of your neighbours."

Customers who rely on life support equipment can register with Horizon Power to ensure priority restoration after any interruption.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services will be holding public cyclone awareness meetings in the Pilbara between October 13 and 18.

It is important everybody actively prepares for cyclones and storms as a few simple steps can really help minimise damage. Andrew Riches