17 Jan 2021 | 07:19 AM UTC
Australia: Tropical Cyclone Kimi forms near northern Queensland Jan. 17
Tropical Cyclone Kimi forms near northern coast of Queensland, Australia, Jan. 17. Landfall likely overnight Jan. 18-19.
Event
Tropical Cyclone Kimi has formed off the coast of northern Queensland. As of 1000 AEST Jan. 17, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 209 km (130 miles) north-northeast of Cairns. Kimi is forecast to strengthen into a category-2 cyclone over the coming days and is likely to make landfall south of Port Douglas overnight Jan. 18-19.
Government Advisories
As of 1400 AEST Jan. 17, the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued cyclone warnings for Cape Melville to Cardwell, as well as areas further interior, including Palmerville, Chillagoe, Cooktown, Cairns, Innisfail, and Port Douglas. BoM has forecast heavy rainfall between Cape Flattery and Cardwell, along with a flood watch for the area. Authorities 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 Kimi will likely bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to coastal areas of northern Queensland. 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, Kimi is likely to produce 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. 19. 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.
