13 Feb 2023 | 07:45 AM UTC
Australia: Adverse weather forecast across parts of far northeastern Northern Territory and far northern Queensland through at least early Feb. 15
Adverse weather forecast across far northeast Northern Territory and north Queensland, Australia, through early Feb. 15. Flooding possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding are forecast across parts of far northeastern Northern Territory and far northern Queensland through at least early Feb. 15. As of Feb. 13, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has warned of a tropical low located 55 km (34 miles) north of Alyangula. The system is becoming less likely to develop into a tropical cyclone. A monsoon trough is forecast to remain in the Gulf of Carpentaria through at least Feb. 17.
Severe weather warnings for damaging winds and heavy rainfall, as well as damaging surf, are in place for parts of Arnhem and Carpentaria districts in Northern Territory; strong winds of 50-60 kph (31-37 mph) are possible over coastal areas of the eastern Arnhem and Carpentaria districts, including Groote Eylandt. The strong winds are forecast to ease early Feb. 15. Heavy rainfall, which could result in flash flooding, is likely in Groote Eylandt from the evening of Feb. 13 before easing early Feb. 14. Six-hourly rainfall totals of 10-14 cm (4-5.5 inches) are possible.
Flood watches have been issued for North East coastal catchments in the Northern Territory and for the Cape York Peninsula in Queensland. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds and large waves trigger hazardous sea conditions.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites. Electricity and telecommunications service disruptions are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
