At approximately 8 a.m. local time (9 a.m. AEDT), the storm system made its presence felt as it landed northeast of Coen, commencing its journey westward across the Cape York Peninsula.

Forecasts indicated that by Friday afternoon, the system would be downgraded to a Category 2 storm. It was expected to move through Weipa and Aurukun communities before heading into the Gulf of Carpentaria.

Thankfully, the Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed that there were no fatalities or serious injuries reported as a result of the storm.

However, the storm’s impact was notable, with hundreds of homes left without power, particularly in the areas of Coen and Lockhart River. Authorities cautioned residents about the dangers posed by downed power lines.

The powerful storm surge had far-reaching effects, as waves surged onto pathways and coastal roads as far south as Cairns, sweeping trees, pathways, and benches into the ocean.

As soon as conditions allowed, emergency crews mobilized to begin the cleanup efforts. Nevertheless, many roads remained impassable due to floodwaters and fallen trees. The recovery process was underway amid these challenging conditions.

Northern Territory next in firing line

The Bureau predicts the cyclone will reach the east coast of the top end of the Northern Territory, north of Groote Island as a category 3 tropical cyclone on Saturday.

The potential for flooding across the Northern Territory will be greatest on Sunday, when the cyclone further downgrades to an eventual low pressure system.

Meteorologist Angus Hines said this means more heavy rain for areas already impacted by significant flooding in recent weeks.

“We could see rainfall in excess of 100 to 200mm along the path of that tropical cyclone, stretching from Alyangula on the east coast to the Katherine area, and out to Wadeye on the western side of the Top End,” Hines said.

“These rainfall numbers are significant, with isolated values above that during Sunday and into early Monday morning, and are likely to lead to renewed river rises across the top end, including the potential for renewed major flooding around Katherine and Beswick, and prolonged major flooding around the Daly River.”

Heavy rain and strong winds will then reach the northern Kimberley, Kalumburu and areas north of Kununurra early next week.

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