Cyclones are unpredictable, powerful, and can turn life upside down in a matter of hours. One minute, it’s business as usual. The next, you’re battening down the hatches, checking emergency alerts, and hoping your roof stays put. Sounds intense? It is. But with the right prep, you can get through it safely and with less stress.
Being indoors during the cyclone season doesn’t mean you’re automatically safe. You need to be ready for power outages, flooding, flying debris, and potential evacuations.
We’ll show you exactly how to get cyclone-ready with OZtrail gear—so when the skies turn dark and the wind starts howling, you’re ready to stand strong.
Cyclones and What You’re Up Against
First, let's see what we’re dealing with. Cyclones—also called hurricanes or typhoons in other parts of the world—are massive, swirling storms packing intense winds, heavy rainfall, and sometimes even storm surges.
Here’s what makes them dangerous:
- High winds – Speeds can exceed 200km/h, strong enough to rip roofs off houses and turn loose objects into dangerous missiles.
- Torrential rain – Flooding can happen fast, cutting off roads and leaving communities stranded.
- Storm surges – Coastal areas face the biggest threat, with seawater being pushed inland, causing massive destruction.
- Flying debris – Anything not secured becomes a hazard, from tree branches to outdoor furniture.
It’s no joke—preparing ahead of time is critical. Watch out for a cyclone warning while staying indoors.
Stay Lit All the Way
Power cuts are almost guaranteed during a cyclone, and the last thing you want is being unable to see anything amidst the calamity. Reliable lighting and having multiple sources ready to go are required.
A headlamp is helpful when you need hands-free lighting for moving around safely. A flashlight gives you that solid, directional beam when you need to focus on something specific, and a lantern keeps larger areas illuminated.
OZtrail’s rechargeable lighting options mean you won’t be scrambling for batteries when the power’s out. Solar or USB-charged lights are your best bet so you’re never left in the dark, no matter how long the outages last.
Keep the Power Flowing
No power? No problem—if you’re prepared. Since you may need to call for help, check the weather, or just keep the kids entertained while waiting for the storm to pass, you will need more power sources.
A portable power pack keeps your phone charged, while a solar blanket gives you a backup energy source when the sun comes out again. And don’t underestimate the power of a battery-operated fan—when the air gets thick and humid after a cyclone, you’ll be grateful for a breeze. Spare batteries can also help in keeping the power alive in your home. You may need them for your battery operated radio and other essential items.
A solar-powered power bank can keep your small devices, like your mobile phone, running for days even when the power grid is down. Keep emergency services contact numbers with you just in case things take a turn for the worse.
Do Not Forget Food
Cyclones can shut down grocery stores and leave you without access to cooking facilities. Having a gas stove means you can still whip up a hot meal when everything else is out of action.
A camp oven lets you bake, roast, or stew your way through the storm, and a good set of pots and pans ensures you’re ready to cook whatever supplies you’ve got on hand. You may need a hot cuppa to keep calm when the wind’s howling outside, so don’t forget a kettle.
Stock up on non-perishable foods like canned food, pasta, and rice. They’ll keep you going when fresh food is hard to come by.
Toughen Up Your Setup
When a cyclone’s rolling in, you need gear that lasts. A solid tarp can be a lifesaver as an emergency shelter, a windbreak, or just a way to keep things dry. Survival tools like a multi-tool, duct tape, and rope can help you patch things up on the fly, and a first aid kit is a non-negotiable—because injuries don’t wait for the storm to pass. If you need special medical supplies, keep them near you, too.
Before the Cyclone Hits: Prep Like a Pro
In the days leading up to a cyclone, you must get ahead of the chaos. Here’s what you need to do:
- Secure loose items—Anything that isn’t tied down can become a flying hazard.
- Stock up on water—You’ll need at least 10L per person, plus extra for cooking and hygiene.
- Charge all devices—Phones, power banks, torches—get them full while you can.
- Check your emergency kit—First aid, batteries, medications, essentials like toilet paper, and dry food should all be accounted for.
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Know your evacuation plan—If authorities tell you to leave, don’t mess around. Go.
During the Cyclone: Stay Safe and Smart
Once the storm hits, safety is your number one priority. Make sure to:
- Stay indoors—Unless you’re a professional storm chaser, don’t test it.
- Avoid windows—Flying debris can shatter glass in an instant.
- Keep emergency gear close—Torches, first aid kits, and power packs should be within reach.
- Stay updated—Listen to weather reports and follow official advice.
And whatever you do, don’t go outside to “check things out”. That’s how people get hurt.
After the Storm: What Comes Next
Just because the winds have died down doesn’t mean the danger is over. After a cyclone, follow these steps:
- Check for damage—Make sure your home is still safe before relaxing.
- Avoid floodwaters—They can be contaminated or hide dangerous debris.
- Restock supplies—If you used up any essentials, replace them as soon as possible.
- Help out—Check in on neighbors and offer a hand where you can.
Be Prepared, Stay Strong
Cyclones are serious business, and no one wants to be caught off guard. Secure your home during storm season, gather essential supplies, and make sure you have reliable power and lighting. The right planning can turn a dangerous situation into a manageable one.
So, don’t leave it to chance. Stock up on OZtrail’s top-tier cyclone safety gear, double-check your emergency kit, and make sure you’re ready long before the storm rolls in. Because when the winds pick up and the rain lashes down, you’ll want to be the one who’s got everything under control.
Stay safe, stay strong, and be ready for anything.