Australia: Tropical cyclone Owen approaching Queensland state and Northern Territory

Event

As of Wednesday, December 12, tropical Cyclone Owen has developed into a Category 2 system (second level in a five-tier system) and is forecast to intensify further over the southern Gulf of Carpentaria over the coming days. A Tropical Cyclone warning has been issued from Cape Shield in the Northern Territory, including Groote Eylandt, through to Burketown in Queensland, as they are located in the cyclone warning zone. Winds up to 110 kph (68 mph) are expected. Heavy downpours are also expected in coastal areas located on the western and southern parts of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Significant related transportation disruptions are possible in the coming days.

Context

The Australian cyclone season typically lasts from November to April. According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), the cyclone could intensify into a Category 3 system (third highest in a five-tier system) by December 13.

Advice

Individuals present in the affected regions are advised to monitor local weather reports and weather alerts issued by the Bureau of Meteorology, confirm travel reservations, avoid nonessential travel, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.