11 Aug 2024 | 07:12 PM UTC
Australia: Authorities responding after helicopter crashes on hotel rooftop in Cairns early Aug. 12
Helicopter crashes on hotel rooftop on Esplanade in Cairns, Australia, early Aug. 12. Increased security, evacuations ongoing.
Authorities are responding after a helicopter crashed into a hotel rooftop on the Esplanade in Cairns in the early hours of August 12. Preliminary reports indicate the incident occurred at approximately 01:50. Officials have established an exclusion zone in the surrounding area, including Esplanade, Minnie Street, Abbott Street, and Florence Street. There have been no reports of injuries.
Authorities have also evacuated nearby residents as a precaution and asked commuters to avoid the affected areas. The cause of the incident remains immediately unclear; officials are likely to provide updates over the coming hours.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions will likely affect the vicinity of the incident site over the short term as the emergency response continues. Associated localized business and lingering disruptions are possible.
Avoid the incident site until authorities give the all-clear and vacate the scene. Allow additional time if traveling in the affected area. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent any disruptions. Strictly heed all instructions issued by local officials.
