Darwin is within the southern zone of tropical revolving
storms. The season extends from November to April each
year and the port may be affected at any time during
that period.
All vessels entering Darwin during the “cyclone
season” are supplied with copies of the Port Procedures
which set out in full the various stages of alert and
preparation to be observed in the case of an approaching
cyclone. Ships may be placed on short notice for sea
and in such circumstances are required to maintain themselves
in seagoing condition while the alert remains in force.
Vessels must not immobilise main engines at any time
without prior permission from the Harbour Master. Tankers
will not be allowed to shut down main engines while
working cargo.
