UPDATE: Tropical Cyclone Fina has intensified into a Category 4 storm as it approaches the Kimberley coast of Western Australia, wreaking havoc in the Top End. The storm, packing wind gusts exceeding 200 km/h, passed north of Darwin on Saturday night, causing extensive damage, uprooting trees, and flooding regional roads.
As of Monday morning, at least 15 public schools and 26 childcare services in Darwin remain closed due to the aftermath of the storm. Heavy rains are still anticipated, with isolated rainfall in places like Wadeye expected to reach up to 150 mm. Power outages continue to affect tens of thousands of homes and businesses across Darwin, Palmerston, and the Tiwi Islands as restoration efforts are underway.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Fina is currently moving southwest at 8 km/h across the Joseph Bonaparte Gulf. The storm is forecast to weaken to a Category 3 system by Monday afternoon as it nears the northeast Kimberley coast. The core of the storm is expected to cross the coast near King George River Mouth on Monday evening, with winds reaching up to 260 km/h and sustained winds of 185 km/h in the center.
Gale and damaging wind warnings are in place from King George River Mouth to the Western Australia-Northern Territory border. Residents in areas from Daly River Mouth to Wadeye are being urged to remain indoors as heavy rains and possible flash flooding threaten the region.
Despite the significant damage reported, Northern Territory Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro confirmed that no injuries have been recorded. She stated, “We’ve had significant damage around properties, and of course, there are some road closures and we now are moving to flooded roadways and other causeways.” The Chief Minister expressed gratitude for the preparedness of the Territory, highlighting a “largely minimal impact” due to community readiness.
In a parallel situation, southeast Queensland also experienced severe weather over the weekend. A severe weather warning was lifted around 8:45 PM on Sunday after residents reported lightning, wind, rain, and hail. The Bureau of Meteorology confirmed hailstones up to 7 cm were recorded in Canungra, with 5 cm hail reported in the Goondiwindi region.
As the cyclone continues its path, residents are advised to stay vigilant. The public can expect further updates from emergency services as conditions evolve. Share this urgent news to keep others informed about the ongoing impact of Tropical Cyclone Fina.
