UP to four cyclones are expected to form in the Coral Sea this season, with one of these predicted to make landfall.

The Weather Channel yesterday released its severe weather outlook for this summer showing that despite a shift into the drier El Nino weather pattern, this summer promises to bring greater cyclone and storm activity compared with last year's mild season.

"Cyclone activity typically increases during La Nina years and is repressed during El Nino years," meteorologist Tom Saunders said.

"However, this theory was questioned last season when, despite La Nina conditions, only eight cyclones formed in Australian waters.

"While usually an El Nino such as the current one would generally decrease cyclone numbers, we expect an increase on the 2011-2012 season with a predicted 11 cyclones in northern Australia, five of which should make landfall."

On average, 12 cyclones form in Australian waters each year between November and April, with only half making landfall.

Last year, two cyclones formed in the Coral Sea but neither made it to land.

Cape York felt the effects of cyclone Grant which formed in the Northern Territory waters before crossing the Gulf.

In line with El Nino, rainfall is set to drop below average across the country, while temperatures should remain about average.

More than 18 months after cyclone Yasi, Cassowary Coast residents are taking no chances this cyclone season, despite the calmer conditions expected, with a campaign launched this month for businesses to prepare for cyclone season.

A joint venture of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, State and Federal governments, Operation Queenslander, the campaign is urging businesses to stock up their emergency kits.

"Emergency kits should include things like a battery-operated radio, a torch, candles, a first-aid kit, canned food and a whole lot more," Cassowary Coast Mayor Bill Shannon said.

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