Forecasts for a quieter cyclone season shouldn't stop Queenslanders preparing for the worst, an expert warns.
The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted fewer cyclones this season, running from November to April next year, because of a strong El Nino effect.
But Dr David Henderson says residents should remember a single storm cell could still do significant damage.
The James Cook University's Cyclone Testing Station director said well-prepared homes - that have been well maintained and regularly checked by a builder or certifier - are less likely to lose a roof in high winds.
Dr Henderson said this was even more important for older homes which can often have just two nails holding the battens to the rafters.
Homeowners need to take responsibility for updating their properties regularly, he said.
"We're used to our cars, driving and being serviced every couple of years," he said.
"Our houses are no different. They sit around for thirty, forty years and we expect it to work."
"But we've got to put the maintenance in."
The bureau's outlook predicts about four tropical cyclones to form along Australia's east coast this season, with one likely to make landfall.
It comes after Queenslanders received a battering from Cyclone Nathan and Cyclone Marcia this year.
An average cyclone season sees about 11 tropical systems eventuate, four of which cross the coast.
HOW TO GET YOUR HOME READY FOR CYCLONE SEASON:
- Get builder or certifier to inspect home for corrosion, termites
- Follow storm preparation guidelines of emergency services, local council
- Prune trees and take down shadecloths at property
- Clean gutters
- Invest in window protection
(Source: JCU Cyclone Testing Station)
