Living in Far North Queensland means enjoying tropical beauty but it also means preparing for cyclone season. Between November and April, our region is prone to severe weather events that can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding. These conditions can disrupt power, water supply, and access to essential services for days at a time.
Being prepared isn’t just a good idea, it’s essential for keeping your family safe and comfortable during an emergency. Having a well-stocked emergency kit and a five-day pantry can make all the difference when roads are closed or shops are empty.
Food supplies should be non-perishable and stored in airtight, waterproof containers. Remember, cooking equipment may not be allowed in public shelters, so plan for ready-to-eat options.
Essential Non-Food Items Checklist
- A torch, preferably waterproof, with plenty of batteries, candles, and waterproof matches
- A portable radio and plenty of batteries
- Blankets or sleeping bags
- Strong plastic bags (for clothing, valuables, etc.)
- At least 10 litres of water per person for 5 days
- A first aid kit, first aid manual, and combination pocket knife
- Masking tape
- Portable stove, cooking gear, utensils, and can opener
- Fuel for your car and generator
- Medications, toiletries, and sanitary supplies
- Spare change of clothes and protective clothing for each household member
- Copies of important family documents (birth certificates, passports, licenses, etc.)
- Books, playing cards, or games
- Money (including coins for phone calls)
- A copy of your household emergency plan
- Pet supplies
- Mobile phone, spare battery, and charger
- Extra car and house keys
Five-Day Pantry List
- Staples:
- 1 kg quick cook oats
- 3 boxes of crispbread
- 1 kg packet of rice
- 12 packets of instant pasta/noodles
- Canned & Packaged Goods:
- 5 tins of fruit
- 5 tins of fish
- 5 cans of vegetables
- 5 cans of baked beans/spaghetti
- 10 cans of meat and vegetables
- 5 boxes/cans of instant soup
- Snacks & Extras:
- 1 packet of sultanas
- 1 packet of almonds
- 15 x 250 ml boxed fruit juices
- 5 small packets of dried potato powder
- 1 kg milk powder
- 1 jar peanut butter/jam/honey/Vegemite
- Sugar
- 5 packets dehydrated vegetables
- Ziplock bags
- Comfort Items:
- 1 box of tea bags
- 1 jar of coffee
- 1 can Milo
Final Tips
- Store all items in waterproof containers.
- Keep your emergency kit in an easily accessible location.
- Regularly check expiry dates and refresh supplies as needed.
- Make sure everyone in your household knows where the kit is and how to use it.
Being prepared can help you stay safe and comfortable during a cyclone. For more detailed advice, visit your local council’s emergency preparedness page.
