Tropical Cyclone Advice Number 5

Issued at 11:11 am EST on Monday 1 March 2021

A slow moving tropical low is developing off the north tropical coast of Queensland.

Areas Affected:

Warning Zone

Cape Flattery to Lucinda.

Watch Zone

None.

Cancelled Zone

None.

Details of Tropical Low at 10:00 am AEST:

Intensity: Tropical Low, sustained winds near the centre of 65 kilometres per hour with wind gusts to 95 kilometres per hour.

Location: within 55 kilometres of 17.5 degrees South 147.3 degrees East, estimated to be 175 kilometres east southeast of Cairns and 135 kilometres east of Innisfail.

Movement: west southwest at 8 kilometres per hour.

The tropical low is expected to remain slow-moving while continuing to develop today. It is expected to reach tropical cyclone strength during Tuesday.

Direct impact from the centre of the cyclone moving onto the coast is unlikely, however the system may remain close enough to the coast to cause gales about exposed coastal fringes and island communities.

The cyclone is likely to remain off the coast while intensifying over the next two days. In the longer term, it is likely to take a southeasterly track away from the coast as a category 3 cyclone.

Hazards:

Gales with gusts to 100km/h are likely about the exposed coastal fringes and island communities between Cape Flattery and Lucinda, including Cairns and Innisfail, during today and on Tuesday.

Heavy Rainfall is likely about the coastal areas and island communities between Cape Flattery and Lucinda, including Cairns and Innisfail, tonight and on Tuesday. A Flood Watch is current for the north tropical coast between Mission Beach and Rollingstone; refer to that product for more information.

Abnormally High Tides are likely in the Warning area over the next several days. Large waves may cause flooding near the foreshore. People living in areas likely to be affected by this flooding should take measures to protect their property as much as possible and be prepared to help their neighbours.

Recommended Action:

People between Cape Flattery and Lucinda should take precautions and listen to the next advice at 2 pm.

– Information is available from your local government

– For cyclone preparedness and safety advice, visit Queensland’s Disaster Management Services website (www.disaster.qld.gov.au)

– For emergency assistance call the Queensland State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500 (for assistance with storm damage, rising flood water, fallen trees on buildings or roof damage).

Next Advice:

The next advice will be issued by 2:00 pm AEST Monday 01 March.

This warning is also available through TV and Radio Broadcasts; the Bureau’s website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 210. The Bureau and the State Emergency Service would appreciate this warning being broadcast regularly.