When a tropical cyclone is forecast to impact coastal communities within the next 48 hours, the Bureau of Meteorology issues a tropical cyclone forecast track map. The track map shows important information about the cyclone's forecast movements, intensity, and its potential areas of impact, to help you prepare. Watch the video below to learn more. For the latest tropical cyclone warnings and the Tropical cyclone 7 day forecast go to http://www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/ | Bureau of Meteorology

There are three active tropical systems over the Coral Sea and south west Pacific Ocean, two of which are currently tropical cyclones. Tropical Cyclone Lucas is currently over the Coral Sea, south of Papua New Guinea as a Category 2 system (at 11am AEST). It will continue to move east, and then southeast, possibly impacting Vanuatu and New Caledonia as it moves through, however there is still uncertainty about the track. At this stage, it could reach a Severe Category 3 strength later on Monday.

WATCH: our new 'Understanding tropical cyclone categories' video. A tropical cyclone’s effects vary depending on its intensity, so it’s important to understand the hazards involved and the potential damage a tropical cyclone can cause. More info: http://www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/about/ | Bureau of Meteorology