Cyclones

Last Updated
Monday, 08/12/2025

 

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Know the risks before you go

Cyclones (also called hurricanes or typhoons) are strong storms that form over oceans. 

If a cyclone forms, it can cause:

  • extreme high winds
  • heavy rain and flooding
  • huge swells and waves
  • storm surges.

These can lead to severe property damage and sometimes death. People die from drowning, collapsed buildings, mudslides and flying objects.

Where and when cyclones can happen

Most cyclones form in warmer months in tropical climates. They form over the ocean and can impact coastal areas. There are seven cyclone 'basins' across the world. Each has a season where cyclones will be most common.

  • North Atlantic, from June to November
  • Eastern Pacific, from May to November
  • Western Pacific, from April to January
  • North Indian Ocean, from April to December
  • South-west Indian Ocean, from October to May
  • Australian region, from November to April
  • South Pacific, from October to May.

Before you go, check if and when there are cyclones where you’re going. Read the travel advice for where you're going. If cyclones are a common risk, we'll mention it in the 'Safety' section under 'Extreme weather and natural disasters'.

What to do if there's a cyclone

Read our advice about what to do if there's a natural disaster. Follow that advice, as well as the following.

As the cyclone approaches

Talk to your hotel manager, tour guide or local authorities. Listen to the radio, follow official channels on social media and watch the news on TV or online.

Be informed

  • Find out where the cyclone is and where it's going. Use the cyclone reporting services listed below. Understand that paths are hard to predict. Even if experts think it will miss your location, you may still be at risk.
  • Find out how powerful it's expected to be when it makes landfall in your location. It may start to weaken on the way or get stronger.
  • Find out where your nearest storm shelter is. It could be purpose-built or an existing building that's been reinforced. If you're evacuating to a storm shelter, do it early. It's not safe to go outside once the storm hits.

Be prepared

  • Prepare your emergency supply kit and keep it close. Charge your devices and battery packs.
  • Get extra water bottles. The water may be shut off once the cyclone makes landfall. You'll need clean drinking water. Water-borne infectious diseases are common after a cyclone.
  • Wear sturdy shoes and other practical clothing that protect you from debris and sharp hazards.
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities on places on appropriate places to shelter.
  • If you're sheltering in your accommodation, cover windows and turn off gas appliances.

During the cyclone

  • Don't go outside. Even if it looks like it's calming down or passing. Extreme gusts of wind and lightning strikes can occur without warning. Wait until authorities confirm it's safe.
  • Stay away from windows. Extreme winds break windows. The shattered glass can seriously injure you.
  • Don't use fire. Don't use matches, candles, gas lanterns, camp stoves, cigarettes, or any flames. Severe winds can damage gas lines. Your flame, even a small one, could ignite it.
  • Avoid using appliances and electrical equipment. This includes plugged-in and handheld items. Lightning during any storm may follow the wiring inside a building. You could get electrocuted. Wind gusts could knock appliances over causing injuries.
  • Stay informed. Listen to local news. If possible, keep a battery-powered radio. If you have internet, follow online news from official reporting services.

When the cyclone passes

  • Stay safe. Stay where you are until you're sure the cyclone has passed.
  • Check for hazards. Some you'll need to avoid. Others you'll need to deal with quickly to prevent more danger. Stay clear of damaged buildings and structures, fallen power lines, glass and other debris.
  • Treat injuries. Seek first aid, if necessary, before helping other injured or trapped people. If it's serious, you may need medical care.
  • Check supplies. Especially clean water. Don't eat food or drink water that was exposed during the storm.
  • Stay informed. Continue to listen to weather updates and follow all advice from the emergency services.
  • Stay in contact. Contact family and friends to let them know you're safe if you can.

Find out who to contact if you need help.

Cyclone reporting services

Global

Northern Pacific Ocean

Caribbean Sea

Indian Ocean

South and south-west Pacific Ocean