03 Jan 2021 | 11:13 PM UTC
Australia: Tropical Cyclone Imogen makes landfall in northern Queensland late Jan. 3 /update 1
Tropical Cyclone Imogen makes landfall in Queensland, Australia, late Jan. 3; likely to dissipate by late Jan. 4.
Event
Tropical Cyclone Imogen made landfall near Karumba in northern Queensland late Jan. 3. As of 2200 AEST, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 524 km (326 miles) west of Cairns. Imogen is forecast to weaken steadily as the system tracks southeastward overland and fully dissipate as a tropical storm over the southern part of the Cape York Peninsula by late Jan. 4 or early Jan. 5.
Government Advisories
As of 0700 AEST Jan. 4, the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) maintains cyclone warnings for the inland eastern Gulf Country, including Croydon. All earlier warnings have been canceled.
BoM could issue new warnings or update existing advisories until the system dissipates. 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 is bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to coastal areas east of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Strong rains will continue to expand into inland areas of the Cape York Peninsula through Jan. 4. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near streams, creeks, and rivers, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed 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.
