A cyclone is a large wind system that moves around an area of low atmospheric pr essure.

It can spread over 500 miles (800 kilometers) in diameter. Low pressure usually develops in large land areas where the air tends to rise. Surrounding ai r moves toward the low-pressure area and starts to circulate, either clockwise o r counterclockwise, depending on whether the cyclone is in the Northern or South ern hemisphere. Cyclones can produce cloudy weather and broad areas of rain and even snow. In the United States, cyclones often are called tornadoes. Answer: Improve Emergency Management Queensland's website offers the following advice for basic action before, during and after a cyclone: Before Have a list of emergency phone numbers in an easily accessible position Determine which is the strongest, most secure room in your house Pack an Emergency kit which includes items such as first aid, torch and portable radio with spare batteries, gloves, candles, matches, copies of important docum ents e.g. birth certificates, essential medications, canned foods Have an evacuation plan ready, including evacuation routes, spare fuel, and list en to Community Service Announcements so you are familiar with what is happening Ensure all garden furniture and loose items outside are secured so they cannot b ecome flying torpedoes Plan ahead of time what will happen with your pets, especially if you cannot tak e them with you in the event of an evacuation Check your roof condition beforehand, and ensure all loose tiles, iron sheeting, etc is secured and repaired Trim overhanging branches to keep them well away from the house Fill buckets and bath with water in case the drinking water supply is compromise d Have sufficient cash on hand for emergencies Tape windows in criss-cross fashion using strong packing tape if you do not have shutters During: Turn off electricity, gas and water, and unplug all appliances Ensure everyone, including pets, are inside Move your family to the strongest room Keep your emergency kit with you at all times Keep listening to the radio for updates If your house begins to break apart, shelter under a really strong table or a ma ttress During the calm eye, do not venture outdoors. Stay where you are, as the other s ide of the cyclone is often more intense than before the eye. Wait for the all-c lear announced on the radio. After a cyclone has passed, you are advised to stay indoors or in your shelter, waiting for the signal for "all clear" before venturing out. Naturally, once you are outside, you must be aware of the likelihood of fallen power lines. Only go out if it is necessary, as cleanup crews will be working to ensure the area is safe. If you wish to download the safety information yourself, click on the link belo w, and go to "Preparing for Cyclones".