Australia: Tropical Cyclone Imogen impacting Queensland, Jan. 3

Event

Tropical Cyclone Imogen has formed in the Gulf of Carpentaria and is tracking towards northern Queensland Jan. 3. As of 1600 AEST, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 60 km (37 miles) southeast of Mornington Island. Imogen is forecast to strengthen as the system tracks southeastward through Jan. 4 before weakening as it tracks overland. Landfall is likely late Jan. 3 or early Jan. 4. The track and intensity forecast could change in the coming days.

Government Advisories
As of 1600 AEST Jan. 3, the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has indicated that the following areas are withing the cyclone warning zone:

• Mornington Island to Kowanyama, including Burketown and inland areas to Croydon

Furthermore, BoM has warned of severe wind gusts on Mornington Island, later extending to coastal and inland communities between Mornington Island and Kowanyama, including Burketown. Storm tide is forecast between Mornington Island and Kowanyama. Heavy rainfall is likely to result in flooding southeast of the Gulf of Carpentaria coast and in adjacent inland areas.

BoM will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days. Weather warnings could remain active even after the system's immediate threat has diminished, as some areas may still be highly susceptible to rain-induced hazards. Officials could order localized evacuations if weather conditions prove particularly hazardous.

Hazardous Conditions
Tropical Cyclone Imogen will bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas to coastal areas of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near streams, creeks, and rivers, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs could experience flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Flooding could isolate some communities for several days.

In addition to the heavy rain, flooding, and storm surge, Imogen is producing damaging wind gusts. Widespread and prolonged power outages due to uprooted trees and toppled utility lines are likely.

Transport
Inclement weather associated with the storm could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions through at least Jan. 5. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Areal flooding in urban locations could also result in severe traffic congestion, while strong winds will pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Heavy rain and low visibility may trigger flight disruptions at regional airports. Disruptions caused by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may exacerbate residual disruptions.

Advice

Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical storm conditions. Heed all evacuation orders, if issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the high potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks. Keep any necessary medications in a waterproof container.

Plan accordingly for commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.

Resources

Bureau of Meteorology (BoM)