Cairns Cyclone Preparation: A Tenant’s Guide to Staying Safe

Cyclone season in Cairns is just around the corner. While the region’s tropical climate is part of its appeal, it also brings the potential for severe weather. From December to February, residents can expect heavy rain and the possibility of cyclones, so it’s important to be ready. We at Cairns Property Collective want to make sure tenants are well-prepared. Here’s how to safeguard yourself and your rental property as we approach cyclone season.

Know Your Zone: Understanding Flood and Evacuation Risks

The first step in preparing for cyclone season is knowing whether your property is located in a flood or evacuation zone. Cairns Council has a colour-coded sticker system inside electricity meter boxes that indicates a property’s level of risk:

• Red Zone: High risk of storm tide flooding. Evacuation is likely during extreme weather.
• Orange Zone: Moderate risk, evacuation may be necessary.
• Yellow Zone: Lower risk but still worth monitoring.
• Green Zone: Safe from storm tide flooding, although other cyclone risks still apply.

Check your meter box for the sticker that applies to your property. This can help guide your preparation and evacuation plans. More information can be found on the Cairns Council’s evacuation maps.

Be Prepared: Create a Cyclone Kit

It’s essential to have a cyclone kit ready in case of an emergency. A good kit should include items like bottled water, non-perishable food, a torch with extra batteries, and a first aid kit. Don’t forget essential documents, such as your tenancy agreement, and any medication you may need. Having these items on hand will help keep you prepared if you need to shelter in place or evacuate.

Familiarise yourself with evacuation routes and keep your cyclone kit accessible.

Important Contacts: SES and Emergency Services

If your property suffers damage during a cyclone, the State Emergency Service (SES) can help. The SES in Queensland is run by volunteers who provide vital assistance during severe weather events, such as setting up tarps on damaged roofs or sandbags to protect against flooding.

The SES contact number for Cairns is 132 500. Keep this number handy in case of emergency, but be aware that SES volunteers are often stretched thin during cyclone season, so be patient as they respond to the community’s needs.

Notify Cairns Property Collective in Writing

If your rental property is affected by a cyclone or flooding, notify Cairns Property Collective in writing as soon as possible. Reporting damage promptly helps us arrange repairs quickly, though repairs might take longer than usual due to high demand for tradespeople during cyclone season. Many professionals may also be dealing with their own property damage, which can cause further delays.

Submitting your damage report in writing allows us to address the situation efficiently and ensures clear communication. You can contact us here for any assistance.

Tenants: Steps You Can Take

While it’s the landlord’s responsibility to ensure the property is structurally sound, tenants also have a part to play in cyclone preparation:

1. Secure loose items. High winds can turn outdoor items into dangerous projectiles. Make sure to secure or store items like outdoor furniture, bins, and garden tools.
2. Monitor tree conditions. If your property has trees that need trimming, notify us so we can arrange for professionals to take care of it. Overhanging branches can pose a serious risk during a cyclone.
3. Check windows and doors. Make sure all windows and doors close properly. If you notice any issues with them, report these immediately to ensure your property is weather-ready.

Support from Cairns Property Collective

At Cairns Property Collective, we know cyclone season can bring a lot of stress, but we’re here to help tenants feel more secure. Our team is on hand to manage property-related issues, keeping lines of communication open and addressing any challenges that may arise during and after a cyclone.

The Cairns Regional Council reminds residents to act early, that in the event that danger is imminent, “you should make your way to family or friends in ‘higher places’ outside threatened zones. Evacuation centres will be activated for those residents from low lying areas, with no alternative accommodation.”



With the right preparation, tenants can stay safe during cyclone season. If you’re looking for peace of mind this wet season, contact us at Cairns Property Collective to manage your property and ensure everything is taken care of during cyclone season.