A cyclone is a powerful tropical storm that bring destructive winds, heavy rain, coastal water surges, and flooding. Queensland and the Northern Territory are particularly vulnerable to cyclones due to their tropical climate and coastal geography.

The official cyclone season in Australia runs from November to April, with the potential for severe storms to impact communities, damage infrastructure, and pose significant risks to health and safety.

Injuries during cyclones often result from flying debris, collapsing structures, and flooding. Knowing basic first aid can help prevent further harm while waiting for emergency services.

Dangers of Cyclones

Cyclones can produce destructive winds, heavy to intense rainfalls, ocean surges, and flooding.

Each of these hazards brings their own potential injuries, and knowing how to deal with them can mean the difference between life and death.

Examples of possible injuries during a cyclone include:

• Falls and injuries
• Sprains, strains, and fractures
• Drownings
• Infections
• Animal bites from snakes or spiders that have been displaced
• Illness from contaminated food or water

The dangers don’t occur just when the storm hits, hazards can linger for days or even weeks after the cyclone has passed.

Treating Cuts and Wounds

Clean minor wounds with clean water and antiseptic. Do not use floodwaters to clean wounds, as they are likely contaminated. If fresh flowing water is not available, or you cannot trust your plumbing, use bottled water.

Apply sterile dressings to prevent infection. Use waterproof bandages if you are in, or need to cross through, floodwaters.

Cover even small wounds until the storm and any flooding has passed.

If bleeding is severe, apply firm pressure with a clean cloth and seek medical help immediately.

If you are injured during a severe storm, check with your health care team if you need to update your tetanus booster.

Managing Fractures and Sprains

Fractures are possible injuries from any severe weather event, and can also occur during the clean-up, especially if floors are slippery.

Should a fracture occur:

• Immobilise the injured limb with a splint or makeshift support if the casualty is comfortable doing so; alternatively, allow the casualty to keep the limb in the most comfortable position for them.
• Apply ice packs (wrapped in a cloth) to reduce swelling.
• Carefully control any bleeding by applying pressure through a clean cloth.
• Seek medical assistance as soon as possible.

Learn more about managing fractures in our article here.

Dealing with Shock

Shock is a life-threatening condition that occurs when not enough blood is flowing through the body.

Shock can develop from several different events that cause the blood pressure to drop, such as trauma, heart attack, or an allergic reaction.

This drop in blood pressure subsequently reduces blood flow to vital organs, thereby depriving them of oxygen and potentially causing irreversible damage.

If you suspect a person is suffering from shock:

• Call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance.
• Lay the person down with their feet elevated if they are conscious, otherwise lay them in the recovery position.
• Keep them warm and reassured, but do not apply direct heat – use blankets instead of a heater or hot water bottle.
• Monitor their breathing and be prepared to administer CPR if necessary.
• Treat any other injuries.

Learn more about First Aid for Shock here.

Handling Drowning and Near-Drowning Incidents

Drowning is possible even in small amount of water, but particularly during floods.

People who are waving, yelling, and splashing in the water may not be drowning, but they may be experiencing aquatic distress. Unlike people who are drowning, people who are experiencing aquatic distress can aid in their own rescue by grabbing onto lifelines or throw rings. It is important to assist people who are experiencing aquatic distress as soon as possible, as they may actually begin to drown.

People who are drowning rarely wave, splash, or yell, as instinct takes over and their body focuses on keeping them above the water’s surface for as long as possible. They may appear floating in the water with their mouth at water level, head tilted back and mouth open, with glassy and empty eyes.

Do not attempt a water rescue unless you have been trained to do so.

If you come across a person who has been submerged in water, check their breathing and pulse.

Perform CPR if they are unresponsive and not breathing, and call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance.

Keep them warm and monitor for signs of secondary drowning (difficulty breathing hours after the incident).

Bites and Stings

Animals and insects may show up in unexpected places after a cyclone. They may have been displaced from their home, and be looking for shelter. This could include snakes, spiders, even crocodiles entering your home or nearby debris.

Bites from dangerous snakes and spiders could be life-threatening. Follow our guides for Snake Bites and Spider Bites.

If you live in far north Queensland, the Northern Territory, or areas known to have crocodiles:

• Be aware of all waterways and not just those with crocodile warning signs.
• Avoid using canoes and kayaks.
• Stand back from the water's edge.
• Never provoke, harass, or feed crocodiles.
• Report all crocodile sightings to the authorities.

A less-well-known threat is that of mosquito-born infections. Limit exposure to mosquitos after severe storms and flooding, use insect repellent when outdoors, and monitor for signs of illness.

Beware of Floodwaters

Floodwaters can be contaminated with sewerage and debris.

Avoid contact with floodwaters if you have any wounds or broken skin, as this can be an entry site for infectious diseases and bacteria.

Avoid driving or walking through floodwaters, as they may be deeper or more contaminated than they appear. Be cautious of hidden debris and downed power lines.

Wash your hands with soap and water or hand sanitiser after contact with floodwater or mud, or damaged material.

Seek Medical Attention if Needed

If anyone has sustained serious injuries or illnesses due to the cyclone, seek medical care.

Be aware of waterborne illnesses that can arise from contaminated floodwaters.

Conclusion

Cyclones pose serious risks to residents of Queensland and the Northern Territory, but with proper preparation and first aid knowledge, the dangers can be minimised.

By planning ahead, staying informed, and knowing how to respond to injuries, communities can remain resilient and recover more quickly after a severe storm.

Stay prepared, stay safe, and always prioritise health and well-being in the face of a cyclone.