Cyclone Considerations for Structures

[Chris SheehanParticipant]

Hello,

I am part of a team doing some research into the environmental aspects that may affect the design of a structure in the remote Cape York regions.

I just have a question regarding if any structure would require some level of cyclone proofing, especially in inland areas near the Peninsula road, or the Old Telegraph Road. Obviously any structure near the coast will need strengthening for these storms, but how impacted are the communities on the inland sections of Cape York. Should this be a dominant aspect of consideration for our design?

Kind Regards,
Chris

[Rachel AlfordKeymaster]

Hi Chris,

Thanks for your questions!

Yes, design structures inland should still consider the impacts of cyclones, however the impacts on structures may be reduced depending on how far inland they are and the intensity of the cyclone. In saying that, cyclones have also historically crossed the Cape York peninsula in its entirety, re-strengthening once it hits the ocean again, so communities inland have experienced cyclones. The Bureau of Meteorology has some great data on historical cyclones in the area where you can track their path and intensity as they cross the Cape York peninsula to give you an idea of what communities living there experience which you can incorporate into your design.

I’d also encourage you to take a look at building standard guidelines in Queensland, such as this document, which outline the differing requirements of cyclone preparedness depending on location in Queensland.

You should also take into consideration other weather events such as heat and flooding, alongside cyclones to ensure that your design is appropriate and resilient for the Cape York context.

I hope this has helped!

Rachel

[Author]

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