Residents of far north Queensland are preparing for severe weather as Tropical Cyclone Jasper approaches. At 4:30 AM Monday, the cyclone had weakened to a category 1 system, positioned about 600 km east of Cairns and 530 km northeast of Townsville.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) forecasts Jasper to regain strength on Tuesday as it nears the coast, potentially reaching category 2 intensity upon landfall between Cape Flattery and Cardwell, near Cairns.
The BoM warns that areas between Cooktown and Ingham should brace for damaging winds of up to 90 km/h starting Tuesday, with gusts possibly reaching as far north as Cape Melville and as far south as Townsville.
Strong winds may cause power outages, phone disruptions, and possible flooding this week.Heavy rainfall is expected to begin late Tuesday, increasing the risk of flooding along the north tropical coast, parts of Cape York Peninsula, and the Gulf Country by Wednesday.
On Monday, a severe weather warning for damaging winds was issued for the Herbert, lower Burdekin, central coast, and Whitsundays districts, with gusts anticipated to reach up to 90 km/h in some areas.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services cautioned that strong winds could cause trees and powerlines to fall, damage roofs, and displace unsecured items.
Additionally, phone and internet outages, as well as disruptions to water supplies, are possible. Communities may also face isolation due to the storm’s impact.
Outgoing Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, who announced her retirement from politics on Sunday, confirmed that preparations are underway and urged residents to remain cautious. She emphasized that the cyclone is expected to make landfall on Wednesday and advised everyone to stay safe.