Cyclone Yasi - North Queensland

Thoughts to everyone in North Queensland, with reports now that impending Cyclone Yasi will probably be the most life threatening cyclone in Australia for generations, with expected winds of up to 320km per hour. Due to reach land around 1am Thursday, at Cairns. More than Cyclone Tracy where 65 people were killed, and close to Hurricane Katrina proportions where 1,833 people were lost in New Orleans, and where, almost 6 years later the city and her people have still not fully recovered.

30,000 people are being evacuated from Cairns, with a storm surge of up to 7 metres expected, much of Cairns could go underwater.

Some details below for people who could be effected, or who have family in the area:

For cyclone preparedness and safety advice, visit Queensland's Disaster Management Services at www.disaster.qld.gov.au

For emergency assistance call the Queensland State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500.

For those evacuating, they are asked to register their whereabouts by ringing 1300 993 191 or by visiting www.redcross.org.au

Cyclone Yasi evacuation and relocation line - 1300 993 191

Stay safe everyone,
Till next time,