In Western Australia, fears are growing for Cyclone Ilsa, which is expected to hit the north-west of the country between the two coastal cities of Port Hedland and Broome on Thursday or Friday. As high water and flooding are feared, evacuations of residents and tourists have begun (video above).
The tropical cyclone is currently classified as Category 2 and is still over the sea about 340 kilometers northwest of Broome in the Kimberley region, Australian broadcaster ABC reported Wednesday, citing the national weather service. Tens of thousands of Australians are already fleeing the cyclone.
Storms can penetrate far inland
However, the storm is expected to intensify in the coming days. “Should ‘Ilsa’ reach the coast as a Category 4 system, it would be the first cyclone of this magnitude to hit Australia in four years,” the country’s weather service warned. There is a risk of flooding – “Ilsa” could penetrate hundreds of kilometers inland.
In 2019, Hurricane Trevor caused severe damage in the provinces of Queensland and the Northern Territory. A cyclone of this strength last raged in Western Australia more than a decade ago, AAP news agency reported.
Wind speeds of up to 200 km/h are expected
Meanwhile, the evacuation of Aboriginal communities, cattle ranches, miners and caravan parks in remote areas has begun. “People should prepare for wind speeds of more than 200 kilometers per hour,” said Darren Klemm of the region’s emergency services.
Cyclone with enormous destructive power
National Bureau of Meteorology spokesman Todd Smith warned, “There will be extensive damage to trees, vegetation, and all buildings and infrastructure (…), and caravans and cars will be flung through the air.” Coastal areas should be avoided they say.
Source: Krone
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