North-eastern Australia prepares for ‘destructive’ cyclone
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CAIRNS, Australia – The north-eastern Australian cities of Cairns and Port Douglas were readying on Dec 12 for the arrival of Tropical Cyclone Jasper, which is expected to bring “destructive” winds and flash floods.
The Category Two storm has been slowly churning across the Coral Sea, with the core of the cyclone expected to hit Australia’s eastern coast at around 1pm on Dec 13.
The tourist cities of Cairns and Port Douglas – both gateways to the Great Barrier Reef – are in the path of the storm.
Meteorologists have predicted winds of 140kmh, heavy rain and possible storm tides.
Ms Miriam Bradbury of Australia’s state Bureau of Meteorology said there was a possibility of “destructive” gusts.
“Winds of this strength can easily bring down tree limbs, whole trees or power lines,” she warned.
The authorities are warning of damage to fences, roofs and other property items, and are urging residents to tie down loose items before the storm arrives.
Flood watches are in place for rivers across the region.
State Energy Minister Mick de Brenni said power would start being cut late on Dec 12 as a “preventative” measure – one that would limit damage to infrastructure and allow power to be restored more quickly after the storm passes through. AFP
