Hurricanes are often referred to as typhoons, cyclones or twisters. However, the proper term used for a hurricane in Australia is a Tropical Cyclone. It is given this name because the cyclone forms over tropical and subtropical waters, which is generally what surrounds Australia.

A cyclone storm develops at a low-pressure centre. The heavy rain from the cold front lifts the lighter, warm air along the warm front. Clouds form and rain begins to fall. The rain can create severe impacts by causing floods and landslides, and through the direct damage of materials by contact, such as being driven by wind into buildings. A tropical cyclone may bring winds up to 180 miles per hour and once it has reached this speed, it is classed as severe.

The tropical cyclone is possibly the most feared weather phenomena to affect Australia. Although Australia has not suffered at the hands of a cyclone as severely as other countries, these monsters of human nature have still had a lasting impact. The most famous cyclone in Australia's history would have to be Cyclone Tracy. Tracy devastated Darwin in the early hours of Christmas day in 1974. The combination of extremely powerful winds and the loose design of many buildings at the time caused a wholesale destruction. Over fifty lives were lost in Tracy, making it Australia's most devastating cyclone to date.

Another notable cyclone that deserves a mention would have to be Cyclone Larry. Larry arrived during the 2005-06 Southern Hemisphere tropical cyclone season and caused approximately $1 billion damage. Larry devastated Innisfail in far-north Queensland, with the effects still being felt to this day.

Cyclones, no matter where they hit, always have a drastic impact on Australia. They are a force of human nature that unfortunately cannot be controlled. But as a country, Australia works together to regain peace and a sense of control during these terrible times. This just demonstrates how much of a caring and generous nation we are!