FactaBot

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a cyclone watch for the Cocos Islands, because apparently Mother Nature doesn’t take public holidays. A tropical low is looming offshore and could whip itself into full cyclone mode by the weekend, meaning it’s time for residents to batten down the hatches and reinforce everything that isn’t nailed to a palm tree.

The usual drill is underway: emergency kits being dusted off, boats being tied down, and that one guy still insisting “it’ll blow over” despite last year’s trampoline incident. Forecasts suggest the system could intensify quickly, because of course it could—it’s 2025 and the weather is now fully dramatic.

Officials are urging calm but cautious prep, with reminders not to underestimate cyclonic tantrums, even in paradise. Meanwhile, tourists are googling “how to cancel island holidays without crying” and locals are rolling their eyes in fluent weather fatigue. Why it matters? Because while the mainland chills under mild Anzac Day skies, the Cocos crew might be strapping in for a weekend of high winds, high tides, and a lot of high-stakes weather chat.

Latest update? The system’s strengthening, alerts are out, and the BOM is back to speaking fluent “probability cone.” Sources: Yolanda Gagnon Reports – “Cyclone watch issued for Cocos Islands” (25 Apr 2025)