People living in parts of the Northern Territory that may be affected by Tropical Cyclone Fina should take steps now to protect their health and plan for potential disruptions.
Severe weather can limit access to health and medical services, sometimes at short notice.
Make sure you have enough essential medicines, prescriptions, and medical equipment for several days.
Store these items in waterproof containers and charge any battery-powered devices ahead of expected power outages.
Follow official emergency updates from the Northern Territory Government, SecureNT and the Bureau of Meteorology.
Local ABC radio remains a reliable source of real-time information.
Useful preparedness information
- SecureNT – Cyclone safety and preparedness
- Northern Territory Emergency Service – Storm and flood safety
Emergency contacts
- For police, fire or ambulance, call 000.
- For storm or flood assistance (non-life-threatening), visit Northern Territory Emergency Service or call 132 500.
Accessing medical care
If you need routine medical care or medicines, contact your local:
- GP clinic
- pharmacy
- Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service (ACCHS).
If local services are closed, you can:
- speak with staff at evacuation centres (if activated)
- use healthdirect's health service finder
- call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for 24/7 health advice from a registered nurse.
Depending on symptoms, healthdirect may connect you to a local Medicare Urgent Care Clinic.
Mental health and wellbeing
Emergencies can be stressful. Staying connected with family, friends and neighbours can help.
24/7 mental health support is available:
- Lifeline – 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
- MensLine – 1300 78 99 78
- Lifeline Text – 0477 13 11 14
- 13YARN – 13 92 76
- Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800
- headspace – 1800 650 890
- OPAN – 1800 700 600.
After the cyclone
Even after the cyclone passes, hazards may remain:
- Avoid floodwater.
- Follow any advice about drinking water safety.
- Discard perishable food that may have spoiled.
- Ensure generators are used outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces.
- Watch for displaced wildlife.
- Take care around damaged homes and debris, which may contain asbestos.
Learn more
Find more information about the health risks of floods and cyclones.