Cyclone
Cyclones are intense low-pressure systems forming over warm ocean water (above about 26.5°C). In Australia they affect northern coastal regions, typically November to April. Know the tropical cyclone category scale (1–5), based on maximum mean wind speed, and that categories indicate expected damage: Category 3 and above cause significant structural damage. Understand the structure: a calm eye surrounded by the eyewall with the strongest winds, and destructive spiral rainbands. The dangerous semicircle (usually the left side in the Southern Hemisphere, relative to track) has the strongest winds and storm surge.
Hazards include destructive wind, storm surge (the leading cause of cyclone deaths), heavy rain and flooding, and flying debris. Preparation: clear the yard of loose items, secure or store outdoor furniture, trim trees, identify your strongest room or evacuate if advised, and prepare an emergency kit.
Traps: questions often test the eye - people go outside during the calm eye thinking the storm has passed, then the opposite eyewall hits. Another trap confuses a cyclone watch (conditions possible within 48 hours) with a cyclone warning (expected within 24 hours). Do not assume a lower category is harmless - rainfall flooding can be severe in any category.
Rule of thumb: Shelter in the strongest part of the building, away from windows, and stay put until authorities say the all-clear.
Worked example: The wind suddenly stops and skies clear. The correct response is to remain sheltered indoors - this is the eye, and destructive winds will return from the opposite direction.