Australia's 2019/20 tropical cyclone season starts today, although it may be awhile before we see our first system crossing the coast.

The tropical cyclone season in Australia runs from November to April, during which time around 11 tropical cyclones typically form in the Australian area of responsibility.

While tropical cyclones can form in the southern hemisphere at any time of year, it's rare to see them near Australia outside the cyclone season. It's also usual for any tropical cyclones to reach our coastline in November. On average, the first tropical cyclone makes landfall in Australia around late-December, although this can vary from year to year.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Australia is expected to see fewer than average tropical cyclones this season. However, it's worth remembering that it only takes one landfalling cyclone to threaten people's homes and lives.

The next 11 tropical cyclones to form in Australia's area of responsibility will be named:

Blake

Claudia

Damien

Esther

Ferdinand

Gretel

Harold

Imogen

Joshua

Kimi

Lucas

You can keep up to date with the latest tropical cyclone outlooks and advisories by visiting http://www.bom.gov.au/cyclone throughout the season.