Bureau of Meteorology forecasts how many cyclones could develop in Northern Australia waters this year

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast how many cyclones could develop in the waters of Northern Australia this year.

THE Bureau of Meteorology has forecast an average to slightly above average number of cyclones to develop in the waters of Northern Australia this year.

In the Northern Region – the zone the NT falls into – an average number of cyclones, two to three, has been forecast.

The BOM’s severe weather outlook has also forecast the wet weather to arrive earlier this year.

“Warm waters to the north of the continent, and the sea surface temperature patterns across the tropical Pacific and Indian oceans, are driving our outlook towards more rainfall for eastern and Northern Australia,” BOM senior climatologist Greg Browning said.

“On average, Australia gets around 11 tropical cyclones in a season, of which four generally cross our coastline. With warmer than average seas around Northern Australia this year, the number of tropical cyclones is likely to be close, or slightly above average.

“And with an already wet landscape and above average rainfall likely, there is an increased risk of widespread flooding for eastern and Northern Australia.” He urged Territorians to be prepared.