Australia (Commonwealth)_
Tropical Cyclone Jasper made landfall in northeast Australia on Wednesday, causing widespread power outages and prompting coastal communities to brace for potentially “life-threatening” floods. The Category Two storm emerged from the Coral Sea, reaching the coast around 5:00 pm on Wednesday (0700 GMT), as reported by government meteorologists.
The storm brought damaging winds reaching speeds of up to 113 kilometres (70 miles) per hour, accompanied by intense rainfall that raised concerns about flash flooding in certain areas. Palm Cove, a usually vibrant seaside town, bore the brunt of rough surf, strong winds, and heavy rain. Restaurants and upscale hotels in the area took precautionary measures, securing their establishments in anticipation of the passing storm. As Cyclone Jasper neared the coast, meteorologist Miriam Bradbury emphasized the impending risk of heavy rainfall, labeling it as the most hazardous and impactful weather event. The cyclone eventually made a gradual landfall near Wujal Wujal, a predominantly Aboriginal settlement, with the Bureau of Meteorology noting “destructive wind gusts.”
Tourist hubs Cairns and Port Douglas, both serving as gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, were also directly in the storm’s path. Deputy Premier Steven Miles issued a warning of “dangerous and life-threatening” floods expected to persist for days. Approximately 15,000 homes experienced power outages as winds intensified, prompting utility companies and the Queensland state government to respond. Residents were urged to secure loose items, and preemptive power cuts were implemented in anticipation of potential damage to fences, roofs, and other property. Flood watches were issued for rivers across the region, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance.
In a unique incident, four government weather forecasters were evacuated from a remote offshore monitoring station on Willis Island as Tropical Cyclone Jasper intensified. An Australian naval destroyer, the HMAS Brisbane guided-missile destroyer, facilitated their evacuation, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. Forecaster William Tom expressed relief upon their safe return to Sydney, stating that waiting out Severe Tropical Cyclone Jasper on Willis Island was not a risk they were willing to take.
