Tropical cyclone Niran set to intensify

Tropical cyclone Niran has developed off Far North Queensland and is moving slowly north-east, away from the coast. At 7am today Niran was estimated to be 275km north-east of Cairns and 265km east of Cooktown. The category 1 cyclone is expected to continue intensifying and is forecast to track back towards the coast this evening and into tomorrow before heading out to sea again from Thursday. A cyclone watch is in place for the area from Cape Melville to Cape Flattery, while a warning zone covers Cape Flattery to Lucinda. A flood watch and several flood warnings are current for the north tropical coast between Cooktown and Rollingstone. Wild weather from the system has already multiple road closures and power outages to more than 40,000 homes in the region from Cairns to Tully and out to the Tablelands. The bureau said this morning that heavy rainfall had eased along the north tropical coast, but may redevelop late this evening or during Wednesday in the warning area if the cyclone tracks closer to the coast. An image shared by Ergon Energy as crews worked to restore power. Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan said some parts of the warning area were already saturated, meaning residents should be very aware of the consequences of further heavy rainfall in their area. “Avoid areas that are prone to flooding. Nobody should ever consider entering flooded creeks or causeways by road or on foot,” he said. “Think about the consequences of your actions and don’t risk your life or the lives of rescuers. As always: If It’s Flooded, Forget It.” Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Greg Leach said personnel were positioned and ready to respond. “Resources have been pre-deployed to strategic locations around the state, with highly-trained Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) swiftwater technicians at Tully, Halifax and Ingham,” Mr Leach said. “Our State Emergency Service (SES) flood rescue operators are also ready to help if required. “While many people in these parts of the state are accustomed to severe weather, I’m urging residents to keep up to date with the latest BOM warnings and to follow the advice of authorities. “If you need storm or flood assistance contact the SES on 132 500, and if it’s a life-threatening emergency call Triple Zero (000) immediately.” Click HERE for up-to-date cyclone information from the Bureau of Meteorology.

Tropical cyclone Niran set to intensify

Industry Queensland

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