North Queensland Residents Told to Prepare for Up to Five Days Without Power

Residents in Cairns and surrounding regions are being told to prepare for up to five days without power as Tropical Cyclone Jasper approaches the coast. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that the system, which is expected to intensify on Tuesday, could dump 500mm of rain in 24 hours.

Gale-force winds are forecast to hit several communities, including Cairns, Innisfail, Palm Island, and Wujal Wujal, from Tuesday. The cyclone is expected to make landfall north of Cairns on Wednesday afternoon as a category 2 system. The region is at risk of minor to major flooding, with six-hourly rainfall totals of 250-300mm likely and 24-hourly rainfall totals of 400-500mm possible.

“If the system is slower and crosses overnight Wednesday or Thursday, a slim chance remains of a severe category 3 crossing,” the Bureau of Meteorology warned. Evacuation centres have been set up across the region, with Queensland’s Deputy Premier Steven Miles warning of a significant risk of flash flooding when Jasper makes landfall.

Cairns residents have been urged to stock up and be prepared for up to five days without power. The city’s hospital is also at risk, with contingency plans in place to deal with the potentially severe weather conditions. Sandbags have been provided to properties at risk of storm surge flooding, with a king tide predicted.

About 40 police officers and 70 SES workers have been deployed to the region to assist with the response to the storm. Sandbags have also been provided to homes in areas at risk of flash flooding. Cairns airport remains operational, but several airlines have indicated that schedule changes or flight cancellations may be necessary.

The tourist area of Paronella Park has closed until at least Friday, with co-owner Judy Evans saying it is an “hour-by-hour situation” and that they have to keep staff and guests safe.

Queensland police commissioner Katarina Carroll has urged people to heed the warnings of authorities, especially visitors or new residents who may not be familiar with the region’s weather conditions during cyclones. The police have been working closely with other emergency services to ensure a coordinated response to the storm.

As the storm approaches, residents are advised to stay informed through official sources, including the Bureau of Meteorology and local authorities. With the cyclone expected to make landfall on Wednesday, residents are being urged to prepare for the worst and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.