Australia: Tropical Cyclone Esther makes landfall near Mornington Island February 24

Event

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) issued an advisory at 16:38 (EST time) on Monday, February 24, forecasting Tropical Cyclone Esther to impact Northern Territory and Queensland states through Monday, before transitioning to a tropical low on Monday evening. The BoM expects gales with gusts up to 110 kph (68 mph) along the coast and adjacent inland areas between Port McArthur and the area west of Mornington Island, and also expects large waves to produce minor flooding in coastal areas - particularly between Karumba and the NT-QLD border. It also forecasts heavy rain with the potential to cause flash flooding in areas around the Gulf of Carpentaria.

As of 16:00 (EST time) on Monday, Esther is a Category 1 cyclone located at approximately 16.8°S 137.8°E (map here) with sustained winds near the center of 75 kph (47 mph) and wind gusts up to 100 kph (62 mph). The BoM confirmed that the cyclone is moving westward at 14 kph (9 mph) and will continue to move westward through NT in the coming days bringing heavy rain, damaging wind gusts and abnormally high tides.

Associated flooding, transportation and business disruptions are anticipated, as well as disruptions to power and communication services, in the coming hours and days.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, avoid sea travel, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.