Darwin & District CC - Resources

Extreme Weather Policy

NT Cricket prioritises the wellbeing and safety of all participants in the DDCC by implementing clear guidelines when extreme weather conditions arise. 

 

Communication & Notification 

To ensure transparency and ease of access to policy updates, the visual indicator below will be displayed: 

🔴  Extreme Weather Policy In Effect: NO 
🟢  Extreme Weather Policy In Effect: YES 

When in effect, clubs and officials will receive official confirmation via email and PlayHQ notifications. 

 

Extreme Heat Policy 

All decisions regarding extreme heat are based on the ‘feels like’ temperature (accounting for humidity and overall heat stress) as provided by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM). 

 

Heat Levels & Adjustments...

Level 

Temperature (Feels Like °C) 

Policy Adjustments 

Level 1 

33–35°C 

Additional drinks breaks may be scheduled as per Law 2.3, at the discretion of the HCC, to minimise risk. 

Level 2 

36–39°C 

Law 2.3 may be modified to include reduced overs, extended breaks, or other match adjustments as determined by the HCC to ensure player safety. Umpires and team officials must actively monitor player wellbeing. 

Level 3 

40°C+ 

When extreme heat is forecast for prolonged periods, the HCC will assess conditions and may abandon play if necessary. Clubs will be notified as soon as a decision is made. 

The HCC has sole authority to enforce the Extreme Heat Policy and determine its application to specific rounds and competitions. 

 

Slow Over Rate Adjustments 

Allowances will be applied for slow over rates in rounds where the Extreme Heat Policy is in effect. Penalties will only be enforced if delays are excessive and unrelated to heat management. 

 

Best Practices for Avoiding Heat Exhaustion 

To help players, umpires, and officials manage extreme heat, NT Cricket recommends the following: 

Before the Game 

  • Hydrate early – Begin drinking water the night before and throughout the day. 
  • Eat appropriately – Consume light, nutritious meals with adequate electrolytes. 
  • Use cooling techniques – Store ice towels or cooling vests for pre-game use. 
  • Check the forecast – Be aware of expected temperatures and hydration breaks. 

 

During the Game 

  • Drink at every break – Alternate between water and electrolyte drinks. 
  • Wear light, breathable clothing – Use a wide-brim hat and sunglasses for protection. 
  • Seek shade – Rest in shaded areas whenever possible. 
  • Recognise heat stress symptoms – Watch for dizziness, confusion, excessive sweating, or nausea. Report any concerns immediately. 

 

After the Game 

  • Rehydrate – Continue drinking fluids post-match. 
  • Cool down properly – Use cool showers or ice packs if needed. 
  • Monitor symptoms – Seek medical attention if feeling unwell. 

 

This policy ensures player safety while maintaining the integrity of competition in hot conditions. For any questions or further information, please contact the HCC. 

 

Cyclone Procedure 

Cyclone Watch or Warning 

  • Cyclone Watch Declared: Matches may continue at the discretion of the umpires of the game in progress and/or the HCC. 
  • Cyclone Warning Declared: All matches must be abandoned immediately, including any match that is in progress at the time of the declaration. 

Decisions will be made in accordance with official BoM alerts, and clubs will be notified as soon as possible. 

 

Lightning Procedure 

NT Cricket follows the AS1768-2007 Lightning Protection Standard, published on 10 January 2007, to reduce the risk of injury or damage caused by lightning. 

30/30 Safety Procedure 

In the absence of specific information from weather radar, a lightning location system, or a specialised warning device, the 30/30 Safety Procedure will be used: 

1. Lightning Threat Awareness 

  • The first flash of lightning or clap of thunder, no matter how far away, should heighten awareness. 
  • If thunder is heard within 30 seconds of a lightning flash, the storm is within 10km and poses a risk. 

2. Suspending Play 

  • If the time between a lightning flash and thunder is 30 seconds or less, all activities must stop immediately. 
  • Players, umpires, and spectators must seek safe shelter (e.g., a fully enclosed building or a car with windows closed). 

3. Resuming Play 

  • Play should not resume until at least 30 minutes after the last sighting of lightning or last sound of thunder. 
  • Blue skies or lack of rainfall are not valid reasons to ignore the 30-minute waiting period.

 

In keeping with our commitment to reconciliation, Northern Territory Cricket acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we are privileged to play and administer the great game of cricket.

Our Head Office is located on the land of the Larrakia People (Darwin), while our Central Australian Office is located on the land of the Arrernte People (Alice Springs). We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Walkabout Wickets by Kirrae Whurrong artist Fiona Clarke (b.1963), represents cricket stars past, present and future, and the meeting places where they play.

Aunty Fiona is is a descendant of James 'Mosquito' Couzens and his brother Jonny Couzens, members of the first Australian cricket team who toured England in 1868.