The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #16244   Message #150827
Posted By: Shimbo Darktree
17-Dec-99 - 11:35 AM
Thread Name: Is All Calm Down Under?
Subject: RE: Is All Calm Down Under?
I lived in Karratha (one of the towns mentioned) many years
ago, and the population then was around 10,000 if memory
serves me right, which it frequently doesn't.
Cyclones are common in the tropical areas of Australia, and
are a yearly occurrence. Sparse population is what keeps
injury and death down, and the residents have learned to take
it in their stride.
For Blackcat2 ... when we get cyclones, we make sure that
the beer is in a safe place, and the ute (pickup truck)
is tied down. We folkies also pack our guitars in crates
of polystyrene beads. Then, when the cyclone hits, we send
the women and children out to keep the shrimps on the barbie :)
For Folk1234 ... you are thinking of a willy willy, which
are frequently very localised twisters. I live in Brisbane
(yes, John) and some years ago a willy willy hit a small
suburban shopping centre two blocks away. It demolished
one shop, and damaged another two. Everything else was OK.
And thank you for your kind thoughts.

And for --seed ... I can see how you spend your time on
the beach!
Regards,
Shimbo