Australia: Tropical Cyclone Kimi weakens near the northeastern Queensland coastline as of late Jan. 18 /update 2

Event

Tropical Cyclone Kimi has weakened off the northeastern Queensland coastline late Jan. 18. As of 2200 AEST, the storm's center of circulation was about 200 km (125 miles) east-southeast of Cairns. The storm, currently a Tropical Low, is forecast to maintain its strength through part of Jan. 19 before weakening further. Landfall is no longer likely.

Government Advisories
As of 2245 AEST Jan. 18, the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued a cyclone warning for the impacted area. A warning zone is located between Lucinda and Ayr, including Townsville. A watch zone is located between Ayr and Bowen. Furthermore, the BoM has indicated that heavy rainfall conducive to flooding may impact areas between Innisfail and Bowen, Jan. 19. 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
The storm will likely bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to coastal areas of northeastern 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. 20. 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. Townsville Airport (TSV) closed from 2200 AEST Jan. 18. 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)