THE weather guru who tipped Brisbane's devastating series of storms is now predicting four cyclones will hit Far North Queensland this summer, including one with the potential to be as destructive as Cyclone Larry.
The first could form and hit the coast within weeks.
Long-range forecaster Hayden Walker yesterday warned that residents in Far North Queensland should be "very" prepared for what is shaping up to be one of worst cyclone seasons on record.
"It is going to be very extreme season and the way it has commenced is a recipe for disaster," he said.
"I would definitely urge all residents to make cyclone preparations as soon as possible."
"One could be on a par with Cyclone Larry; one at least could be category 5."
Mr Walker said recent sun spot activity that he claimed influenced weather patterns were the catalyst behind the "extremely seriously storm season".
He said while three damaging category 3 and above storms were likely to form between January and March, recent weather conditions meant a December cyclone could cross the coast within weeks.
"Right now it is a cocktail for disaster with all the humidity," he said.
"The rainfall and temperature records show there is a high probability of a cyclone within weeks and through
December.
"The high temperature and humidity causes sea temperatures to rise creating the perfect recipe for disaster."
Cairns Weather Bureau duty forecaster Jonty Hall said he could not rule out Mr Walker’s predictions but a cyclone forming this early in the wet season was unusual.
"Cyclones are reasonably rare in December, the peak is usually in February and March," he said.
"Sea surface temperatures reach their maximum at that time and the monsoonal trough is at its most influential."
Mr Hall said there had been December cyclones before and there would be again.
"The probability is pointing at the early formation of the monsoon trough," he said.
"The average monsoon onset time is December 25."
Mr Hall said he could not endorse Mr Walker’s forecasts but did confirm that sun spot activity did influence temperature over the longer term.
